E-dock supports e-boat challenges

The global marine fast charge network Aqua superPower is to be Yacht Club de Monaco’s (YCM’s) official technical partner for the 2023 Monaco Energy Challenge. The event, which is in its tenth year, will host three boat classes (solar, energy and open sea) and take place from 3rd - 8th July.

“Monaco has always been a yachting mecca and pioneer. From 1904, the Principality organised the first powerboat meetings. Innovation is synonymous with Monaco,” says YCM general secretary Bernard d’Alessandri. “To celebrate ten years of the Monaco Energy Challenge we want to demonstrate that the technology exists and is efficient and effective over a given distance. What better way to do this than organise the world’s biggest meeting of electric vessels with a target record participation of over 55 boats.”
Aqua superPower will launch the first e-dock at the event. Comprising an eco-pontoon built of bamboo and equipped with AC chargers, it will have the capacity to recharge over 20 boats simultaneously with a fast reliable supply. DC fast charging will be offered at the permanent fast charge stations in Port Hercules.
The e-dock concept is the brainchild of YCM as part of its commitment to promote sustainable navigation. In 2019, YCM was the first marina in the world to equip its dock with Aqua’s rapid DC (Direct Current) chargers in order to demonstrate and pave the way for the adoption of electric leisure and commercial boating, an initiative that included adding electric tenders to reinforce its sports section fleet.
Also new for the anniversary is the first e-boat rally for commercially available electric boats. This will enable a record number of electric boat builders to show the public what the future for leisure and commercial boating looks like. The 16nm rally will leave from Monaco to call into Cala del Forte in Ventimiglia, Italy where participants can recharge and visitors will be able to see the boats up close before they return to Monaco.
www.aqua-superpower.com