International Electric Marine Association establishes global headquarters in Barcelona

Chemistry & Sustainability

15 Oct 2024

IEMA chose Barcelona for its strategic location near key maritime innovation hubs and international regulatory bodies like the IMO and ISO.

The International Electric Marine Association (IEMA) has chosen Barcelona as the location for its new global headquarters, which will open in January 2025.

This strategic decision, approved by the IEMA Board of Directors, was based on several factors, including Barcelona's proximity to the EU's maritime innovation hub and its close relationship with key international regulatory bodies such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). In addition, the city's leadership in global maritime infrastructure, underlined by the importance of the Port of Barcelona, made it an ideal location for IEMA's continued growth and influence in the sector.

“Barcelona is a worldwide port and a global brand, with an unequivocal commitment to decarbonization”

Adrià Jover, IEMA's President

In addition to its new headquarters in Barcelona, IEMA plans to maintain a global presence through regional offices on four continents. The association has future ambitions to establish full-time offices in the US, EU, China, and the South Pacific to ensure comprehensive support for its worldwide operations.

Since its launch in September 2023, IEMA has quickly become a key figure in the electric marine industry, with over 80 members worldwide. The association's membership includes major commercial and recreational marine players, such as Torqeedo-Yamaha, Honda R&D, Genevos, and Navalt. Alongside these industry leaders are infrastructure pioneers such as the Port of Barcelona, shore power solutions provider Kempower, electric outboard motor manufacturer Propulsion, drivetrain manufacturer Vita Power, and battery technology specialists CATL and Kreisel.

The Barcelona headquarters will oversee IEMA's global initiatives, focusing on membership services, project management, events, and partnership development. The move consolidates IEMA's role in driving innovation and sustainability in the electric marine industry as it continues to grow and influence the transition to greener maritime technologies.

IEMA President Adrià Jover expressed his excitement about the move, stating, "Barcelona is a worldwide port and a global brand, with an unequivocal commitment to decarbonization. We believe IEMA will have the best platform to fully develop its potential and address its international agenda".

Source: International Electric Marine Association (IEMA)

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