30/06/2025
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Thames Solar Electric is the UK's first boat builder of fully electric canal boats using solar power.
Apps Court Farm, Gate 2, Hurst Road, Walton-on-Thames
Surbiton
KT122EG
| Monday | 8am - 5pm |
| Tuesday | 8am - 5pm |
| Wednesday | 8am - 5pm |
| Thursday | 8am - 5pm |
| Friday | 8am - 5pm |
| Saturday | 10am - 1pm |
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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 canal boat. Combining our shared twin passions for life on the river and renewable energy, we started Thames Solar Electric from our base in south west London.
In 2017, we completed 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 is brimming with progressive eco-design features onboard the contemporary floating home. Extra large, triple glazed windows 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. Rainwater is collected from the roof and we installed a waterless composting toilet to reduce our water use. There is also no gas onboard – the induction hob is powered by the sun and hot water is heated by either the free electricity or 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 represents proof to the doubters that a fully self-sufficient electric river or canal boat is not only possible, but is already a phenomenal success quietly cruising the Thames since 2017. We have built on our experience and successes with The SunFlower and now provide customers with a range of exciting options to help them ensure the waterways are clean, green and serene.