Solar-powered electric boats

Odense aims to be CO2-neutral by 2030, and Odense Aafart supports this goal. Over the past six months, a lot of hard work has gone into getting the tour boats ready for the start of the season, and we succeeded just in time. You now have the opportunity to experience nature and Odense Å in a whole new way the next time you join us.
The trip will be more idyllic than ever. The motors in the electric boats are completely silent, which is not only a fantastic experience for the guests, but it 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. Various suppliers were contacted and prices were obtained. However, 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. They were assigned an advisor who had previously been part of the Ellen electric ferry project.

This advisory process provided Odense Aafart with the necessary knowledge and insight, and in autumn 2022, the final decision was made and the equipment was 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 fumes or other pollutants from the on-board power source - but also to produce around 90 per cent of the power for the boats themselves.

‘It was a unique opportunity, which is why 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 consultants and approvals, which is a very large investment for the 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 for lots of experiences on Odense Å starts. The season offers idyllic trips on the tour boats, cosy hours on the Water bikes and canoe trips for the adventurous.
There's also the opportunity to participate in a variety of events filled with 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, different musicians come and give 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.