Mar 26, 2024

We learned from a story by Anna Cummins in the Marine Industry News feed from the UK, that nine national electric marine associations worldwide have signed a manifesto prepared by the International Electric Marine Association (IEMA), which the global association hails as a ‘landmark moment’ for the global electric marine industry.

The IEMA manifesto urges a ‘collective commitment’ to accelerate the adoption of electric propulsion, energy storage, and sustainable technologies in all aspects of maritime and inland water transportation. 

It has been endorsed by representatives from The Electric Boat Association of America, The Electric Boat Association of Canada, The Norwegian Electric Boat Association (Norsk elbåtforening), 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 Boats, The Spanish Electric Boat Association (ANBE), and The Electric Boat Association of the UK.

“The collective commitment of these national associations signifies that by joining forces, we are poised to accelerate the adoption of electric propulsion and sustainable technologies, fulfilling IEMA’s core aims of collaboration and environmental responsibility,” says Adria Jover, president of IEMA. 

“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.”

Jeff Butler, president of the Electric Boat Association in Canada and electric boating journalist, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the significance of global cooperation in advancing electric marine solutions. 

“Together we can set a precedent for global cooperation in advancing electric marine solutions,” he says. “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.”

Sue Putallaz, CEO of IEMA member Mobyfly and representative for the Swiss Association for Zero Emission Boats, adds: “By fostering collaboration and driving innovation, IEMA and its manifesto partners are paving the way for a cleaner, greener, and more efficient maritime transportation sector. As representatives of the electric and sustainable boating industries, we aim to showcase our commitment to environmental protection and promote better practices globally.”

Since its inception in September 2023, IEMA has brought together over 40 members from around the world, including those in the US, across Europe, Asia and the South Pacific.

Those interested in becoming a member of IEMA can visit the website for more details.