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Solar electric boats redefining the way we travel: A ”Solar Impulse Efficient Solution”

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#yacht #yachtlife #boat #solar
Published
06/15/2020 by

In a time where old standards are being questioned, the opportunity to forge new paths is opening up. There is a shift towards a more sustainable lifestyle, and the demand for meaningful and long lasting products is rising. While the earth is recovering during these times of limited travel, the awareness for the necessity of e-mobility is more present than ever. Soel Yachts, a Dutch based company, is redefining the way we travel on the water by setting the benchmark for highly efficient solar electric boats. 

In 2017 Soel Yachts launched the first SoelCat 12 at the Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa, where the solar electric catamaran takes up to 12 guests on lush lagoon and sunset cruises. Entirely silent and sustainable with no carbon pollution, this not only preserves the pristine Tahitian waters, but also creates a sense of elevated tranquillity. The prestigious resort, which is currently undergoing a transformation to introduce new luxurious and modern standards, has now decided to offer sustainability on all levels by switching their entire fleet to solar electric boats.

“With the current movement of more sustainable thinking and the environmental impact on the whole world, fossil fuel free transport has become indispensable. In the past two years of
successful operations with the SoelCat 12, we have seen that our reputation among the guests has increased significantly due to the growing sustainability movement. Preserving coral reefs and improving the quality of the air matters a lot, especially when on holiday.” explains Romain Vidal, General Manager of the FHP Hotel Group. 

Currently the first two solar electric ferries of the newly developed Soel Shuttle 14 type are under construction for the Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort. The comfortable layout offers space for up to 24 passengers and their luggage, and can be customized to client wishes. A VIP version for exceptional private tours is also on the drawing board. With an installed battery capacity of 106 kWh and 80 kW of motor power from Naval DC the Soel Shuttle 14 is set up for speeds up to 14 knots. “Our clients want to be autonomous and no longer rely on the availability of diesel and petrol, while still approaching the performance of conventional powered boats. Solar electric boats present the perfect alternative with low running costs and quick return of investment.” explains Linda Brembs, Managing Partner at Soel Yachts.

All of these features and benefits were taken into account when this year the World Alliance Members of the Solar Impulse Foundation selected Soel Yachts’ solar electric boats as an ‘Efficient Solution’, passing a rigorous evaluation by a team of worldwide experts in the environment, technology and business management. The solution must match the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and is judged according to three criteria: feasibility, environmental impact, and profitability for the owner. 

The ‘Solar Impulse Efficient Solution’ label seeks to bridge the gap between ecology and economy, bringing together environmental protection and financial viability. It demonstrates that these solutions are not expensive fixes to problems, but rather opportunities for clean economic growth. Bertrand Piccard, Initiator and Chairman of the Solar Impulse Foundation explains: “Each time I speak of protecting the environment to heads of state or government officials, they tell me that it is too expensive. This label is a strong message to them: solutions exist, and represent the biggest market opportunity of our century. An opportunity which cannot be missed.”

After numerous discussions and meetings with private boat owners, island states and governments, Soel Yachts understands the needs around passenger transport and translates this into sustainable solutions for both commercial and private operators. The hull designs of the solar electric boats are optimized for maximum efficiency and the need to provide reliable running hours. “Build quality, system reliability, performance and durability are top priorities for us. We believe our ability to deliver an unforgettable experience with excellent economy per trip, truly sets our boats apart.” says Joep Koster, Co-founder of Soel Yachts. Whether providing green transportation to destinations like Bora Bora, Miami, Sydney or Toronto, or getting people closer to nature: Soel Yachts’ provides an answer for a meaningful experience with long lasting impact.

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