The Global Alliance for Maritime Electrification (GAME) is born
GAME has declared its mission to bring together global expertise to advance zero-emission solutions through coordinated research, policy advocacy and industry collaboration. Collectively, the member organisations represent over 250 organisations internationally.
The four founding members are IEMA (International Electric Marine Association), ZESTA (Zero Emission Ship Technology Association), MBF (Maritime Battery Forum) and EOPSA (European Onshore Power Supply Association).
The decarbonisation of the maritime sector has seen several leaps forward in the last five years. European decarbonisation goals in 2020 led the way in setting international targets and the required certification standards. Earlier this year, in April 2025, the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) approved net-zero regulations for global shipping. This has started the ball rolling internationally for green investments, furthering infrastructure and safety standards for hydrogen and biofuels and their derivatives. But intercontinental shipping involves vast distances with enormous vessels. Inland and coastal maritime transport is a different matter.
There is already a plethora of electrification motorisation options for mid-sized and small watercraft on the market. The electrification of inland and coastal watercraft is relatively straightforward. As the new organisation points out, “Most vessels on the water today are small to midsize craft operating close to shore, many of which are ideal candidates for electrification.”
“We see tremendous potential to fast-track zero-emission solutions for the world’s workboats, ferries, and passenger vessels,” said Adria Jover, President of IEMA. “By aligning our strategies, GAME members will amplify each other’s voices, reduce redundancy, and better serve this industry transition.”
The organisation’s stated goal should be rewarding work, since technological gaps are less of a complex issue for mid- to small-watercraft than in other sectors. GAME identifies the following inhibitors to be tackled: “policy fragmentation, infrastructure gaps, and underfunded R&D efforts continue to stall momentum.”
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