The 10th edition of the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge will take place from the 3rd -8th July 2023 next year. This unique event – the only one of its kind in the world - is organised by the Yacht Club de Monaco in partnership with the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, with support from Credit Suisse, BMW, SBM Offshore and the shipyard Oceanco.
Under the aegis of Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting, the event is set to host the three traditional classes (Solar, Energy and Open Sea) as well as an exciting new development in partnership with Aqua superPower, the world's first global marine fast charging network.
"Monaco has always been a yachting mecca and pioneer. From 1904, the Principality organised the first powerboat meetings. Innovation is synonymous with Monaco. To celebrate ten years of the Monaco Energy Boat 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 55+ boats," says Bernard d'Alessandri, Yacht Club de Monaco's General Secretary.
Electrifying edition onshore...
Aqua superPower is joining forces with the YCM as an official technical partner to enhance the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge's status as a global flagship event for electric boats. As a fast-charging dockside infrastructure platform that builds and operates local recharging networks for the global maritime market, Aqua superPower will launch the first E-Dock with the YCM for this event. Comprising an eco-pontoon built of bamboo, and equipped with AC (Alternative Current) chargers, it will have the capacity to recharge 20-plus boats at the same time with a fast reliable supply. In effect, it will be a floating charging platform for all electric boats participating in the Open Sea Class. DC fast charging will also be available through Aqua and the YCM's permanent fast chargers in Port Hercule.
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's fleet.
...and at sea
Also new for the 10th anniversary edition is the first E-Boat Rally for commercially available electric boats. The event will enable a record number of electric boat builders to show the public what the future for leisure and commercial boating looks like. The 16 nautical mile E-Boat 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 returning to the Principality.
According to Aqua superPower CEO Alex Bamberg: "Aqua superPower is the first dedicated electric fast charging network for boats, with the aim of installing corridors of chargers in boating areas everywhere in order to provide the platform to make electric boating feasible. We have worked closely with the YCM for several years; they have been very supportive and were early pioneers in believing and demonstrating that electric navigation is the future. For this 10th Monaco Energy Boat Challenge, we are pleased to be working alongside the Club to attract electric boats from all over the world as the industry takes off".
Innovation Lab will lift the veil on the latest innovations
Parallel to events taking place on the water there will be an Innovation Lab onshore, dedicated to industry and researchers, where the YCM will exhibit projects and innovations selected by the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge jury.
Best of Innovation prizes are up for grabs in four categories: alternative energy system (battery, fuel cells, etc.), alternative propulsion system, new materials, and innovative & sustainable yacht/boat. Projects submitted must be applicable to the yachting industry and show a positive impact on sustainable development and evidence of bringing something innovative to the sector. Applications to enter opened on the website https://energyboatchallenge.com/ and will close on 15th March 2023. Nominees will be announced at Monaco Ocean Week (20-26 March 2023).