With support from the USDA Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, The Boat Yard, LLC developed and tested an all-electric aluminum workboat designed for the U.S. aquaculture industry. Traditional workboats, powered by gasoline or diesel engines, have long contributed to greenhouse gas emissions, noise pollution, and inefficiencies. By transitioning to electric propulsion, we significantly reduced environmental impacts while providing aquaculture operators with a more efficient and cost-effective alternative.
The custom-engineered aluminum hull was optimized for electric propulsion, ensuring durability in demanding marine environments and extending battery life and operational range. Advanced battery technologies, such as active thermal management, allowed the workboat to perform consistently across various climates, including cold-weather operations.
We collaborated closely with aquaculture operators to refine the design based on their needs. The development and testing of virtual and alpha prototypes confirmed the electric workboat as a reliable, low-emission solution for transporting equipment, materials, and personnel. The boat has proven to reduce fuel costs, maintenance demands, and harmful emissions, making it an ideal fit for modern aquaculture operations.
The Boat Yard’s electric workboat demonstrates the potential for climate-friendly innovations to reshape aquaculture. By offering a practical, sustainable alternative to traditional workboats, this project paves the way for future advancements in environmentally responsible aquaculture practices. The electric workboat is well-positioned to support the industry’s long-term environmental and economic goals.