Salcombe Harbour takes delivery of zero-emissions electric boat

Salcombe Harbour has taken delivery of a zero-emissions RS electric boat from RS Pulse 63.

RS Electric Boats delivered its state-of-the-art RS Pulse 63 electric RIB to Salcombe Harbour on Friday, 14 March.  

The delivery forms part of the ZENOW project, a "pivotal programme" dedicated to advancing the adoption of zero-emission maritime solutions.

RS Electric Boats’ Managing Director, Alex Newton-Southon, and Head of Electrical Engineering, Alex Middleton, Salcombe Harbour Master Cameron Sims-Stirling, Deputy Harbour
Master Marcus McCheyne, and Senior Moorings Officer Sam Viles

The ZENOW Project is a key initiative under the Zero Emission Vessels and Infrastructure (ZEVI) programme, funded by Innovate UK, UK SHORE and the Department for Transport. The project is playing a vital role in driving the UK’s transition towards more sustainable maritime transport solutions by facilitating the deployment of 15 electric workboats across the UK - furthering the country’s commitment to achieving zero-emission goals.

As part of the ZENOW project, Salcombe Harbour Authority will be using their RS Pulse 63 for a three-year demonstration.

RS Electric Boats’ Managing Director, Alex Newton-Southon, and Head of Electrical Engineering, Alex Middleton, were on-site to guide Salcombe Harbour Master Cameron Sims-Stirling, Deputy Harbour Master Marcus McCheyne, and Senior Moorings Officer Sam Viles through the advanced features and operations of the RS Pulse 63.

Deputy Harbour Master Marcus McCheyne, said: “This initiative allows us to thoroughly test the vessel’s performance, range, and capabilities in real-world conditions, contributing to the advancement of sustainable marine technology.”

Throughout the trial period, Salcombe Harbour Authority will assess the electric RIB’s efficiency, practicality, and suitability for various applications, including patrolling, towing, enforcement, rescue, leisure and other commercial operations.

“We are thrilled to be part of this initiative, as we explore the future of electric propulsion on the water,” Marcus continued. “This opportunity allows us to evaluate how electric RIBs can integrate into our operations and contribute to a greener marine industry.” 

The RS Pulse 63, known for its exceptional performance, offers a zero-emissions alternative to traditional workboats. With this delivery, Salcombe Harbour Authority now has a tool in its fleet to support the transition to eco-friendly maritime operations. 

Alex Newton-Southon, Managing Director of RS Electric Boats, added: “We’re incredibly proud to contribute to the growth of sustainable maritime practices. Leading on the ZENOW Project aligns perfectly with our mission to create innovative, environmentally responsible vessels, and we’re excited to help lead the charge in building a cleaner, greener future for our waters.”

This project is part of the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition Round 4 (CMDC4), funded by the UK Department for Transport (DfT) and delivered by Innovate UK. CMDC4 is part of the Department’s UK Shipping Office for Reducing Emissions (UK SHORE) programme, a £206m initiative focused on developing the technology necessary to decarbonise the UK domestic maritime sector. 

RS Electric Boats is proud to be a key player in the transition to zero-emission vessels and looks forward to continuing its efforts to revolutionize the maritime industry with advanced, sustainable technologies.