New boat sector non-profit the International Electric Marine Association (IEMA) has launched a manifesto pledging its commitment to the adoption of electric vessel propulsion, emphasising “knowledge exchange, educational outreach, research and development, industry representation and cultural/environmental considerations” among its key objectives.
The manifesto has been endorsed by nine national association signatories, including: the Electric Boat Association of America; the Electric Boat Association of Canada; the Norwegian Electric Boat Association; L’Association Française pour le Bateau Electrique (AFBE); the Electric Boat Association of Greece; the India Boat Association/India Eco Boat Association (IEBA); the Swiss Association for Zero Emission Boat; Spain’s National Electric Boat Association (ANBE); and the Electric Boat Association of the UK.
Jeff Butler, president of the Electric Boat Association of Canada, comments: “The manifesto sets out an agreement to pool resources for collaborative research and projects to accelerate innovation in electric marine technologies, address challenges and identify opportunities for improvement. We can drive innovation, influence policies and create a more environmentally conscious marine industry.”
IEMA was founded in September 2023, to serve as a platform for the global electric marine sector and to push for “impactful national and international policies” to drive carbon neutrality across multiple vessel types by 2030. The association claims to have attracted more than 40 members since its launch. Adria Jover, president, comments: “IEMA is working to make an impact as quickly as possible, and I welcome this positive action of the national associations to advance electric mobility and promote environmental stewardship.” The first IEMA AGM will be held at the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge, which runs between 1-6 July.
