What the Project Is
Navalt is an eco-marine tech company that specializes in the manufacturing of solar electric vessels. Since 2013, this Kochi-based company has been pushing the boundaries in marine technology by delivering solar-powered electric boats that truly redefine energy utilization in shipping. Its flagship, the solar-electric ferry “Aditya,” launched in 2017, proudly holds the title of India’s very first zero-emission ferry. The project brings together advanced technology in the fields of Electric Vehicle development, Naval Architecture, and Photovoltaics to create cleaner, efficient water transport solutions… All of this is achieved through expertise in design, analytics, and renewable energy, which help optimize vessel performance while minimizing OPEX and nullifying emissions.
Main Benefit
Key figures and facts showcase the project’s impressive achievements:
- Founded in 2013 with headquarters in Kochi, India
- Over 99 vessel-years of experience in solar electric vessel manufacturing
- 34 boats in active operation with another 38 under construction, reaching 72 vessels by the end of 2025
- Aditya has completed 5 years of successful operation and achieved breakeven in 2019
- Multiple award-winning vessels: Aditya won the Gustave Trouvé Award in 2020, and Srav became the world’s best electric work boat in 2022
- Expansion into new areas such as vehicle transport and defense, with vessels reaching up to 50 m and 80 tonnes carrying capacity
Innovative Design and Renewable Energy Integration
The design and analytics services offered by Navalt ensure these vessels are optimized for efficiency and performance. Innovative use of renewable energy in powering their fleet not only minimizes operational costs but also underscores their commitment to a fossil fuel–free future. This integration of renewable energy is a key ingredient in creating a more sustainable marine transport system that stands as a beacon for the industry. Combining years of practical experience with state-of-the-art technology, the project demonstrates how sustainable practices can be seamlessly merged with modern infrastructure.
Expanding Applications and Market Reach
The project extends far beyond the realm of public transport and tourism. These solar electric vessels have found vibrant applications in various sectors, including fishing and vehicle transport. They have been at the forefront of deploying zero-emission technologies in diverse marine environments. Notably, Navalt’s commitment is evident in its work across different geographies: from 68 vessels operating in India to installations in Israel, Maldives, Canada, and Seychelles. The versatility and adaptability of the technology promise to revolutionize the way marine transport accommodates differing operational needs. Every vessel, be it a passenger ferry or a leisure boat, is a testament to the value of merging innovation with sustainable practices.
Milestones and Achievements
Navalt’s timeline is filled with highlights that reflect relentless forward momentum. The journey began in 2009 with the creation of Sunrider, a solar-electric boat that went on to make it to the Limca Book of Records as the fastest solar boat ever built. Over the years, numerous milestones have marked its progress: retrofitting a petrol boat to a solar-powered fishing vessel in 2012, the launch of the compact solar fishing boat CIFT Sun Boat in 2015, and the creation of additional solar powered vessels such as Aditya, Srav, Barracuda—the fastest solar-electric boat in India—and Indra, India’s largest solar electric cruise boat launched in 2023. These accomplishments highlight not only technical prowess but also a clear vision for cleaner and quieter oceans.
Technology and Data-Driven Management
The creative spirit behind Navalt extends to its innovative data management system, Oceanix. Oceanix is a marine data-driven energy management system dedicated to improving vessel performance and reducing costs for ship owners and managers. This technology accepts real-time data to optimize energy consumption, providing insightful analytics that help to streamline operations and bolster efficiency. The smart use of data in managing energy further establishes Navalt as both a pioneer and a leader in marine innovation. This seamless blend of traditional marine engineering expertise with modern digital solutions is making waves… quite literally.
Project Impact
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 14: Life Below Water
Vision for a Cleaner Future
Navalt envisions a future where energy-efficient water transport will lead the march towards a decarbonized marine industry. With a firm focus on cleaner and quieter oceans, the project continues to innovate by combining electric technology with efficient marine design, all while tapping into renewable energies. It is a narrative of success forged through a blend of passion, state-of-the-art engineering, and a clear environmental mission. The steady stream of innovative projects and accomplishments serves as an inspiration for a broader shift in marine transport—a move toward a system where fossil fuels have no place, and where the vast expanse of the blue ocean is truly electrified.
