Odense Aafart launches solar-powered electric boats

Odense must be CO2-neutral by 2030 and Odense Aafart supports this goal. Over the past six months, we have worked hard to get the tour boats ready before the start of the season, and now we can announce: Odense Aafart launches solar-powered electric boats.

Now you have the opportunity to experience nature and the Odense River in a whole new way when you sail up the river next time. The trip will be more idyllic than ever. The motors in the electric boats are completely silent, which not only provides a fantastic experience for guests, but also creates a greater sense of calm for the surrounding neighbours and those who move around Odense Å.

The Zero Emission project started back in 2019, when Odense Aafart began the process of investigating the possibilities of phasing out the use of diesel. Suppliers and prices were obtained, but it turned out to be a lot more expensive and complex than first thought.

In the spring of 2022, the project really took off when Odense Aafart was accepted into the Green Circular Transition counselling programme through Destination Fyn. Here they were assigned an advisor with experience as an advisor on the project of the electrically powered ferry, Ellen. This advisory process gave Odense Aafart the necessary knowledge and insight, and in the autumn of 2022, the final decision was made and the equipment ordered.

During the consultancy process, Odense Aafart was introduced to the possibility of solar cells on the roof of the electric boats. This is unprecedented in the industry, but was a unique opportunity to not only achieve ‘Zero emission’ (boats that do not emit exhaust gas or other pollutants from the on-board power source) but also to be able to produce approximately 90 per cent of the power for the boats.

‘It was a unique opportunity to take a step towards sustainability, so we decided to go all-in and invest not only in electric motors but also in solar cells placed on the roof of the boats,’ says Eva Pasgaard Skytte, CEO of Odense Aafart.

The project turned out to be larger and more extensive than expected, both in terms of the size of the investment, the scope of the remodelling, the approval process at the Danish Maritime Authority and not least the new solar cells. The total investment totalled almost DKK 2 million, including consultant and approvals, which is a very large investment for a relatively small company.

Fortunately, Odense Aafart experienced great support for the green transformation of the 141-year-old cultural heritage and received support from the Energi Fyn Fonden, Sydbank Fonden and Albani Fonden foundations. In addition, grants have been awarded from the SME:Green and Green Circular Transition programmes. In total, it has been possible to obtain support and funding for approximately 30% of the total investment.

On 1 April, the season starts for lots of experiences on Odense Å. The season offers idyllic trips on the tour boats, cosy hours on the Water bikes and canoe trips for the adventurous.
There are also plenty of events full of delicious tastings, such as rum tasting, wine tasting and beer tasting. Are you more into socialising with friends? Then a delicious Rosé tasting, a Cocktail Cruise or a Ladies Night could be an option.
Every year a different musician comes and gives a fantastic performance! Musik på Åen is an opportunity to spend cosy hours on the water with loved ones, enjoying a quiet summer evening with music and drinks on board.

If you want to try out the new tour boats for yourself, you can book your ticket here.