Exeter's waterways go green with new electric boats

The transition to electric power on Exeter’s waterways is progressing, with the introduction of a new electric boat to support daily operations.

Exeter City Council’s Waterways team has recently taken delivery of a new electric workboat while also converting an older patrol vessel to electric power.

This move follows a trial last year, during which the Council tested a hydrogen-electric boat on the estuary in collaboration with Ecomar Propulsion and the University of Exeter.

The newly deployed boat, which replaces an ageing vessel, is an aluminium, double-skinned workboat powered by an ‘Epropulsion’ electric motor. It will be used for various tasks along the canal, including moving vessels or pontoons and transporting staff and equipment. Testing of the motor took place last year.

The boat has been named Von 'e' G in recognition of long-serving waterways administrator Yvonne Goodwin.

Additionally, a similar electric motor has been installed on the Council’s old Waterways patrol boat. This vessel is now stationed on the canal and will be loaned to the ‘Friends of the Exeter Ship Canal’ – a voluntary group dedicated to maintaining the canal. Members will receive training on the boat, enabling them to access the water and transport equipment to remote areas.

Cllr Ruth Williams, Lead Councillor for the city’s waterways, welcomed the initiative: “It’s great to see our waterways team trialling – and indeed using – cleaner, greener energy to maintain our waterways.”

Cllr Matt Vizard, Lead Councillor for Climate, Ecological Change and Communities, added: “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 electric motor for the old patrol vessel were supplied by CDT Marine in Dartmouth. The company worked closely with the Council and the Centre for Future Clean Mobility to identify the most effective solutions. Funding for the project came from income generated by the Waterways team’s project work.