Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, attracts millions of tourists every year, many of whom take a cruise along the Vltava River to enjoy the stunning views of castles, cathedrals, and monuments. One of the most popular operators, Prague Boats, offers eco-friendly river cruises on their fleet of electric catamarans. To further their commitment to sustainability, the company has now installed two SmartFlower solar units, an innovative solution that powers their boats with clean, renewable energy.

A Green Vision for Tourism

Prague Boats has long been dedicated to minimizing its environmental impact, with electric catamarans already reducing reliance on traditional fuel sources. However, they sought to take it a step further by generating their own renewable energy at the dockside to power their fleet.

The solution came in the form of SmartFlower, a solar system that tracks the sun’s movement throughout the day to maximize energy generation. Unlike traditional fixed solar panels, the SmartFlower unfolds like a flower and can generate up to 40% more energy. After seeing the success of their first unit installed in May 2023, Prague Boats decided to install a second unit in August, along the Dvořák embankment, strategically placed next to their fleet.

Solar Power and Public Engagement

The first SmartFlower installation quickly became a landmark, drawing attention from locals and tourists alike. Positioned along a busy stretch of the riverbank, it has sparked curiosity and conversation about the potential of solar power. The system has proven to be highly efficient, generating clean energy that powers the electric catamarans, helping reduce the company’s reliance on traditional grid electricity.

The second SmartFlower installation was placed to complement the first, further solidifying Prague Boats’ image as a leader in eco-friendly tourism. Together, the two systems generate significant solar power, reduce the company’s carbon footprint, and contribute to the sustainability of their operations.

Results and Impact

The SmartFlower installations have had a visible impact on both the company and the community. They provide a reliable, renewable energy source for Prague Boats’ e-catamarans, cutting down on operating costs and reducing environmental impact. At the same time, they have become an iconic feature of the Vltava River, attracting thousands of tourists who are inspired by the beauty and innovation of the system.

For Prague Boats, the move has strengthened their reputation as a sustainability leader and set them apart in the competitive tourism market. The SmartFlowers not only provide clean energy but also enhance the customer experience by showcasing the company’s commitment to green practices.

Looking to the Future

Following the success of the initial installations, Prague Boats plans to continue expanding its use of SmartFlower technology. The company is exploring additional solar solutions to further reduce its environmental footprint and enhance its green credentials. The visibility of the SmartFlower systems has also opened doors for collaboration with local governments and environmental organizations, positioning Prague Boats as a key player in Prague’s sustainable tourism efforts.

Conclusion

By integrating SmartFlower solar technology into its operations, Prague Boats has set a new standard for eco-friendly tourism in Prague. The installation of two SmartFlower units not only powers their electric catamarans with renewable energy but also demonstrates the company’s commitment to sustainability in a way that engages and educates visitors. As the tourism industry continues to shift towards greener practices, Prague Boats is leading the way in showing that innovation and sustainability can go hand-in-hand.