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’s striking contemporary looks are in part due to her extra large, triple glazed windows which maximise interior light and ensure minimal heat loss. These are complimented inside by superior wall and floor insulation and a smart heat recovery ventilation system for retaining heat in winter yet staying cool in summer.
The SunFlower is brimming with other progressive eco-design features onboard, including rainwater harvesting and a waterless composting toilet. There is also no gas onboard. The induction hob is uses the solar energy as does the hot water system. iIn winter we heat her using an eco log burner. Life onboard is fully sustainable, with zero emissions, and there are no fuel bills to pay.
The SunFlower has been an astonishing success, turning heads and opening minds wherever she goes. She is proof that a fully self-sufficient electric riverboat is not only possible, but is already a phenomenal success quietly cruising the Thames since 2017.
And now a new fleet of our solar electric boats are taking to the UK waterways - the Droitwich Canal, the Regents Canal, the Grand Union, the River Lee and the Great Ouse all host the latest designs from Thames Solar Electric - ensuring our inland waterways are clean, green and serene for the future.