Boatlataus

Boatlataus is a term used to describe the process and infrastructure involved in charging electric boats while they are moored at a dock. It covers the onshore electrical supply, charging stations, and the safety, metering, and control systems required to deliver energy to vessels that rely on on-board batteries or energy storage systems. The concept has gained attention as ferries, sightseeing boats, and recreational craft adopt electrification to reduce emissions in port areas.

Origin and usage of the term vary by region. The word appears as a hybrid of English and Finnish elements, with "boat" and "lataus" (Finnish for charging) reflecting bilingual usage in Nordic contexts. In broader English-language technical writing, the activity is more commonly described as shore power, dockside charging, or onshore power supply (OPS) for boats and ships.

Components and operation typically include a shore power connection at the dock, protective equipment such as ground fault protection and residual current devices, energy management systems, and metering to monitor consumption and billing. Some setups may incorporate energy storage on shore or on vessels to smooth demand and improve grid integration. Interfaces and connectors are chosen for marine environments to ensure safety and interoperability across vessel types.

Applications and benefits extend to electric ferries, passenger boats, fishing vessels, and leisure craft. Shore power enables longer operating ranges for electric vessels, reduces local air and noise pollution, and supports port electrification strategies. Key challenges involve ensuring adequate electrical capacity at busy ports, protecting equipment from water and corrosion, maintaining system reliability, and aligning with maritime safety standards and regulations.

See also: shore power, dockside charging, onshore power supply, maritime electrification.