For over a century, fossil fuels like coal, gas, and oil have powered our cars, boats, and waterways. However, the time has come to move away from combustion engines and the environmental damage they cause. Renewable energy, once dismissed as too costly and unreliable, has now evolved into an affordable and effective alternative. Thanks to breakthroughs in green technology and energy storage, renewable solutions can now transform our canals and rivers, completely removing the need for polluting diesel engines.
In 2016, we decided that the technology was ready and the time was right to build the UK's first exclusively solar powered electric widebeam. Combining our shared twin passions for life on the water and renewable energy, we started Thames Solar Electric from our base in south west London.
Ryan, an ex-Navy diver with over 20 years' experience in the construction industry, made it his mission to develop an onboard solar generating and storage system which was both effective and affordable for a widebeam canal boat. The result is our unique Solar Electric Propulsion System – the quietly beating heart of our business.
In 2017, we completed work on The SunFlower – the UK's first 100% solar powered electric widebeam. The SunFlower is 65' x 13' (20m x 4m) with 20 solar panels (producing 6 kWh) covering two thirds of the roof. This impressive solar array feeds a substantial 96kW battery bank giving us enough free energy to live off-grid all year round. Her quiet electric motors mean she cruises almost silently through the water and the lack of diesel also means she emits no nasty fumes or pollution.
The SunFlower stands out with its striking, modern design. Extra-large, triple-glazed windows maximise natural light inside while ensuring excellent heat retention. Superior insulation on the walls and floors is paired with a state-of-the-art heat recovery ventilation system, keeping the interior warm in winter and comfortably cool in summer.
Innovative eco-friendly features include rainwater harvesting, a waterless composting toilet, and the complete absence of gas onboard. Cooking is handled by a solar-powered induction hob, while the hot water system also runs on solar energy. In the colder months, an eco-friendly log burner provides warmth. Living aboard The SunFlower is entirely sustainable, with no harmful emissions or energy bills to worry about.
Since her launch, The SunFlower has been a resounding success, turning heads and changing perceptions of what's possible on the water. Her quiet, eco-friendly cruising has demonstrated that fully solar-powered riverboats are not just an idea--they're a proven reality.
Today, Thames Solar Electric is introducing a new fleet of solar-powered boats to waterways across the UK. From the Droitwich Canal to the Regents Canal, and from the Grand Union to the River Lee and the Great Ouse, our latest designs are making waves. These innovative boats are ensuring that Britain's inland waterways become cleaner, greener, and more peaceful for generations to come.
Thames Solar Electric is the UK’s only supplier of 100% solar-powered canal boats, eliminating the need for diesel entirely. With our expertise and dedication to renewable energy, we’ll help you bring your vision of an eco-friendly boat to life. Contact us today to take the first step toward sustainable cruising.