NEXT GEN Marine

AEPC1 - Approved Electrical Propulsion Course 1

19.09.2024

More seafarers will have the opportunity to train for the growing number of electric-propelled vessels taking to the water, under key benchmarks put out for consultation by the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency.

Draft criteria have been published as the basis for new courses for maritime training providers, including minimum learning requirements for safety and technical skills.

It has been written in response to the increase in sophistication of battery technology, electronics and electric drives in today’s small vessel sector, which means more crew training is needed.

MCA Chief Examiner Ajit Jacob said, 'It is vital for seafarers’ skills to keep pace with technological advances, including electric propulsion, which is expanding strongly among small to medium-size vessels such as ferries, workboats and commercial yachts. Courses based on the new criteria will form a springboard for skilled seafarers to develop their careers and contribute to the UK’s successful maritime industry.'

The draft course requirements are in two parts. Part One for all crew, would cover general topics such as safety and basic procedures, including fire-suppression arrangements. Part Two for technical crew, would focus on key elements such as battery management and control, maintenance and repair along with shorepower. Completion of Part One is a prerequisite for progressing to Part Two.

Each course must be submitted to the MCA for approval before being opened to trainees. The overall aim is to provide learners with the necessary knowledge, understanding and proficiency to conduct safe and effective operations onboard of vessels already utilising electric drives with battery technologies.

The document is the result of close work between the MCA and training providers, businesses and industry bodies such as the Workboat Association.

The final version of the criteria for courses, which are not mandatory for seafarers, will be published once the consultation feedback has been analysed.

The APEC1 Working Group, under the MCA, has also agreed to meet every six months after the course is implemented to make sure it keeps up to date with any other emerging technologies.

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