Just weeks to go before the start in the Principality of the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge, the largest meeting for alternative energy sources organised by Yacht Club de Monaco. Already 27 teams have completed their registrations in the Solar and Energy classes, categories composed mainly of engineering students. The event has also attracted around 15 professional entrants coming to present their latest innovations at the first YCM E-Boat Rally from Monaco to Cala del Forte in Italy. YCM has also set itself a zero-emission goal with its 100% electric press and safety boats. A total of 50-plus boats will be out on the sea in the bay of Monaco.

Focused on R&D in open source, with a full programme of nautical challenges on the sea, daily Tech Talks, industry pitches and a conference, this unique in the world event is supported by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation. Other partners include Credit Suisse, BMW and SBM Offshore, with key yachting industry players involved such as the Sanlorenzo, Oceanco, Ferretti and Monaco Marine shipyards.

Well over a century since the first powerboat meetings that attracted the world's industrialists to discover the latest innovations in propulsion, the Principality maintains its long tradition as a laboratory of technology. "YCM aims to be a driving force in the environmental transition, an ambition that is part of the collective 'Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting' approach," says YCM General Secretary Bernard d'Alessandri.

Alternative power sources at heart of discussions

As every year, sustainability discussions will continue during the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge with a half-day conference (Thursday 6th July) entitled Challenges, Engagement and Adoption to take stock of the challenges ahead and progress made. Next day (Friday 7th July) sees the 4th Hydrogen Round Table organised by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, the Energy Transition Mission and the YCM. Monegasque, French and international governmental and institutional stakeholders will come together with international developers of hydrogen projects. Worth noting that every year the number of hydrogen-related prototypes entering this Challenge increases, up from two in 2019 to six in 2021, seven in 2022 and this year nine teams have taken up the hydrogen challenge.

An international meeting

In the Energy Class registrations closed mid-January, those in the Solar Class have just completed their dossiers. A total of 27 teams from 23 nations are set to descend on Monaco from as far afield as Peru, USA, Canada and India, as well as Turkey, Croatia, Italy, Portugal, etc., all will be represented ashore and at sea. Competitors in the Open Sea Class have until 1st of June to complete their entries.

Industry players listening to students

Keen to promote exchanges between engineering students and industry, YCM is ramping up opportunities for them to make contact, such as the Job Forum. Launched 2019, this initiative runs throughout the event to meet a growing demand for internships and jobs for budding engineers to meet industry needs. It has proved very successful, so this year a networking session entitled 'Live Career Day' is being organised for the first time on Thursday 15th June to kick start these exchanges between yachting professionals and young engineers.