Electric Thames project advances with new funding

The Electric Thames project to decarbonise Britain’s River Thames and bolster London’s electricity network has secured $0.5 million ($0.65 million) funding for its next steps.

The initiative, which is led by network operator UK Power Networks, is aimed to demonstrate the use of the River’s vessels in storing renewable energy and delivering flexibility to the network – thus, as the project promoters describe it, “transforming the River Thames into a dynamic energy asset”.

In the first ‘discovery’ phase, which was completed in May 2024, the potential for electric vessels to balance London’s energy demand was demonstrated.

In this second phase, with new participants including the Port of London Authority and EV charging platform provider ev.energy, the focus is on mapping current and future energy requirements for different vessel types operating on the Thames.

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It also is intended to explore solutions and potential pathways for adoption across the broader British market, laying the foundation for widespread implementation.

“The Thames has been the lifeblood of London for thousands of years, so it is exciting to be laying the foundations for it to enter the age of green energy,” said Luca Grella, Head of Innovation at UK Power Networks in a press statement.

“Our aim is to create a blueprint that could revolutionise maritime transportation and be scalable across the UK and beyond.”

This ‘alpha’ phase should deepen understanding of the operational requirements and key adjustments needed to make zero-emission vessels a viable option for Thames operators.

A focus will be on the financial implications and benefits of transitioning to cleaner operations in order to provide operators with clear pathways towards adopting zero emission solutions for vessel and quay operators.

Other participants in the initiative include the maritime energy transition specialist Marine Zero and consultants LCP Delta, which will continue to deliver the maritime and energy modelling elements of the project.

Grace Rawnsley, director of sustainability and net zero transition at the Port of London Authority, added that having supported the Electric Thames project in its early days, the Authority is now delighted to join as a formal partner.

“At the PLA we care for, champion, and celebrate the river, so it is a natural fit to join with a project which brings innovation and environmental ambition together, helping towards our vision of the River Thames becoming net zero.”

Ofgem provides the project funding through its Strategic Innovation Fund.