Unlocking clean energy potential on the Thames

Aimed at reducing carbon emissions and tackling growing energy demand, the initiative is a major step in supporting the vessel electrification movement and reshaping the future of port infrastructure in London and beyond.

“The River Thames has always been a vital lifeline for the capital, and now, as we look to decarbonise our world, we have a chance to transform the maritime sector,” said Luca Grella, head of Innovation at UK Power Networks.

“The work being done to integrate electric vessels with technologies like Vessel-to-Grid is a major step forward, offering new ways to balance the grid and deliver cleaner, more efficient energy.”

Tackling challenges

Developed in partnership with LCP Delta, Marine Zero, ev.energy and the Port of London Authority, Electric Thames is helping operators adopt low-emission vessels by tackling infrastructure challenges and preparing the electricity grid for future maritime loads.

Vessel-to-Grid technology is a key innovation being explored, which allows electric boats to act as floating batteries, feeding surplus power back into the electricity grid when moored. This would help balance supply and demand during peak periods, while potentially saving them money.

The project has analysed 62 of the 180 commercial vessels regularly operating on the Thames, which currently consume 38 GWh annually, the equivalent of 10 million litres of diesel and emit 27,200 tonnes of CO₂. Insights from this analysis is guiding essential grid upgrades to meet new energy needs.

Electric Thames has also identified 21 riverside sites suitable for installing charging points, ensuring port infrastructure can support commerce, transport, and tourism.

Backed by Ofgem’s Strategic Innovation Fund, the project is helping set a benchmark for sustainable maritime transport across the UK.

UK Power Networks owns and runs the cables and substations which deliver electricity from the national grid to 8.5 million homes and businesses across London, the South East and East of England.

As the country’s biggest electricity distributor, it has invested GB£8 billion in its electricity networks since 2011.