The transition to electric power on Exeter’s waterways progresses as a new electric boat has been deployed to perform daily operations.
The transition to electric power on Exeter’s waterways progresses as a new electric boat has been deployed to perform daily operations.
Exeter City Council’s Waterways team has taken delivery of a new electric boat and converted an older vessel to electric power.
This isn’t the first time electric propulsion has made waves on Exeter’s waterways. The Council tested a hydrogen-electric boat on the estuary late last year as part of a trial involving the boat’s manufacturers, Ecomar Propulsion, and the University of Exeter.
Fast forward to the present, and the new workboat replaces a very old one. The latest addition is an aluminium, double-skinned vessel powered by an ‘Epropulsion’ electric motor. It will be used on the canal for general duties such as moving vessels or pontoons, as well as transporting staff and equipment.
Testing of the motor was carried out last year. The boat will be named Von 'e' G as a token of thanks to long-term waterways administrator Yvonne Goodwin.
A similar electric motor has been fitted to the old Waterways patrol boat. This is now located on the canal and will be loaned to the ‘Friends of the Exeter Ship Canal’, a voluntary group that carries out work around the canal to help keep it tidy.
Members will be trained on the vessel, enabling them to access the water and transport equipment to more remote areas.
Cllr Ruth Williams, Lead Councillor responsible for the city’s waterways, said: “It’s great to see our waterways team trialling – and indeed using – cleaner, greener energy to maintain our waterways.”
She added: “We value the work of the ‘Friends of Exeter Ship Canal’ and are pleased to be able to support their efforts through the loan of the boat.”
Cllr Matt Vizard, Lead Councillor for Climate, Ecological Change and Communities, agreed, saying: “The City Council is committed to reducing its emissions and has a bold target to be Net Zero by 2030. This sets a great example for others, demonstrating that zero-emission options are a viable alternative as technology develops.”
The new boat and the separate motor for the old vessel were supplied by CDT Marine from Dartmouth, who worked closely with the Council and the Centre for Future Clean Mobility to provide the most effective options. The funding for these was generated by income from project work carried out by the Council’s Waterways team.
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