Electric transition for sustainable maritime solutions - Interview with Anenca
The electrification of maritime fleets is a major challenge for shipping companies, especially those operating in protected waters. As environmental regulations become stricter, maritime operators must adapt their infrastructure and equipment to remain competitive and environmentally friendly. Anenca, a long-standing player on Lake Annecy, has risen to this challenge by integrating electrical solutions into its services and working with local partners such as Dolphin Charger to provide an adapted charging solution. This exclusive interview with Anenca takes us to the heart of this electric transition, from the initial idea to the technical realization.
Can you tell us about Anenca?
Anenca is a company based in Sévrier, operating mainly on Lake Annecy and specializing in a variety of navigation services. Founded in 2009, the company was taken over three years ago by a new management team, which has refocused its activities on the modernization of the fleet and the transition to more environmentally friendly solutions.
Today, we offer a wide range of services, including licensed and unlicensed boat rentals, transfers for seminars and private events, and water taxi services with a pilot. We also have a growing boatyard offering maintenance and electrification services for professional and private clients.
Our raison d'être is to make boating more accessible while respecting the environmental requirements of protected waters. We mainly cater to local boaters and companies that want to organize events or rent boats.
Why did you decide to electrify your boats?
Electrification is both a strategic and an environmental choice. With the new regulations imposed by the French government, particularly regarding the protection of water bodies such as Annecy, we must comply with standards and offer clean mobility solutions. As a local player, we also have a responsibility to help reduce the carbon footprint of water sports activities.
We have two historic boats that are now 100% electric, which is a legal requirement and a real asset for our environmentally conscious customers.
How did you come to meet Dolphin Charger?
When we were looking for a suitable charging solution for our boats, we came across Dolphin Charger. We knew of their reputation but did not know they were based nearby in Annecy. When we found out, we quickly contacted Nicolas Fata, their sales manager. From the first discussions, a good working relationship was established. Dolphin Charger was able to meet our specific needs, particularly in terms of 48V chargers adapted to the constraints of electric boats.
We particularly appreciated their local approach and ability to develop customized solutions quickly. This partnership has enabled us to go further, mainly by asking them to accelerate specific R&D projects to meet our immediate needs.
What Dolphin Charger solutions are you using today?
We've opted for several charger models, including Dolphin ProEvo2 48v40a chargers, a technology shared with a Dutch brand. We currently use four chargers: one for a private individual in Annecy-le-Vieux, two for a professional on the lake, and one we keep in stock for future projects. This model is particularly appreciated for its ease of installation and intuitive integration with our fleet of boats.
What convinced you to work with Dolphin Charger?
In addition to their geographical proximity, we were won over by their commitment to environmental responsibility. Dolphin Charger doesn't just supply quality products. They're also committed to the environment. Working with a company that shares our values, particularly regarding sustainability, is essential. We were able to discuss the environmental impact and the practical design of the products, which strengthened our trust in them.
How did you go about installing the chargers?
Installation was extremely quick and easy. We were pleasantly surprised by the ease of use of Dolphin Charger products.
Everything was up and running in just one month, from order to installation. Their plug-and-play approach enables rapid integration, a real advantage for a company like ours that manages tight deadlines. The solutions integrate perfectly at the shipyard or on the rental pontoons.
What are your plans for Dolphin Charger?
We plan to take our collaboration even further. We're already working with Nicolas Fata on developments around new Dolphin ProEvo3 48 V chargers, which will play a key role in the coming electric transition.
Eventually, we'd like Dolphin Charger to become our R&D partner, enabling us to test new solutions directly on our boats. This partnership is a real opportunity to innovate while benefiting from Dolphin Charger's geographical proximity and responsiveness.
What makes this collaboration unique?
This partnership goes beyond simply supplying equipment. We have genuine technical exchanges with Dolphin Charger, whether on charger placement, cable connections, or design.
Our discussions also focus on concrete feedback as we test the products directly on our installations. We're proud to be able to say that this collaboration is more than just a business partnership. It's a local alliance that shares the same environmental and responsible vision.
The collaboration between Anenca and Dolphin Charger embodies a shared vision of the future of sustainable boating on Lake Annecy. By working together, the companies are contributing to the energy transition and promoting a responsible and innovative approach.
Thanks to advanced technological solutions and unrivaled responsiveness, Dolphin Charger supports Anenca in its electric challenges while promoting the development of clean, silent mobility on protected bodies of water. Do you have a similar project? We'd love to hear from you!
