Electric marine propulsion technologies launch in US

New developments in electric marine propulsion are being implemented in the United States to support coastal resilience and electrification. At Hog Island Audubon Camp in Maine, the National Audubon Society has launched its first fully electric passenger boat. This refurbished pontoon vessel, powered by a 20-kilowatt ePropulsion X20 electric outboard motor, is used to transport people and supplies between the mainland and Hog Island. The initiative is a collaboration between the Seabird Institute, Island Institute, and ePropulsion.

In New York, Photon Marine is launching a $1 million marine electrification project supported by the National Science Foundation. The project features the ‘ChargeBarge’, a 32-foot floating battery platform designed to provide 40-kilowatt mobile fast charging to electric boats. This system allows for vessel-to-vessel charging and can be moved to where energy is needed, rather than relying on permanent waterfront infrastructure. The project, which includes a 24-foot workboat, is expected to conclude in late 2027 or early 2028.