The boating market in the Netherlands: fertile ground for electric propulsion
Water sports and yachting are very popular in the Netherlands, with over 3 million people taking part, or 16% of the population. Thirteen times smaller than France and with a population density of 533 inhabitants per km² (CBS) - one of the highest ratios in the world - the Netherlands is famous for its land reclaimed from the sea, and has a vast network of waterways that attract many boating enthusiasts. Among the most common types of boat are sloops and sailing yachts. Boating is a key sector, particularly for leisure, with a strong tradition of sailing, motor boating and water-based activities.
The Netherlands is one of Europe's leaders in energy transition. The country has adopted ambitious policies to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions, with the aim of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. As part of this transition, the boating sector is benefiting from incentives to adopt greener solutions. In South Holland, where there is a high concentration of yachtsmen, subsidies were granted between 2023 and 2024 to yacht owners wishing to convert their fossil-powered boats to electric power. The subsidy was intended to cover 25% of the total conversion costs, up to a maximum of €4,000.
Dutch companies in the nautical sector benefit from two national subsidies, the Environmental Investment Allowance (MIA) and the Free Depreciation of Environmental Investments (Vamil), for their investments in environmentally-friendly technologies and equipment, such as lead-free batteries, electric propulsion systems and recharging points for electric boats. These tax schemes allow companies to deduct the costs of green investments from their tax base more quickly, offering tax benefits to encourage sustainable investment.
Local regulations also encourage the reduction of polluting emissions on inland waterways, notably through the introduction of low-emission zones. For example, the city of Amsterdam has introduced restrictions on diesel-powered boats in its canals. The Amsterdam Waterways Memorandum plans to allow only zero-emission boats in the city centre from 2025 and in the whole of Amsterdam's inland waterways from 2030, as well as installing more charging stations. However, the project's ambition is now coming up against the reality on the ground, with many users critical of the tight deadlines imposed by the city and the lack of resources allocated to guarantee sufficient charging station coverage.
The transition to electric power: between ecological aspirations and challenges for Dutch yachtsmen
For Dutch boaters, the transition to electric boats is seen as both a major step forward and a source of practical concern. Their expectations in terms of sustainability are undeniably growing, so more and more boat owners and yachtsmen are looking for eco-friendly solutions for their boating activities. Electric or hybrid propulsion systems are the most popular solutions for greener boating, offering a silent, emission-free alternative. This trend is part of a wider movement towards sustainable mobility, where the demand for electric vehicles in sectors such as motoring, cycling and public transport is also influencing the boating sector.
The transition to electric sailing brings its own challenges. The recharging network, which is currently being developed, may hold back some boaters who want to sail without constraints, for example. To overcome these obstacles, subsidies and collaboration between manufacturers, authorities and sailing federations play a key role in improving infrastructure and technology.
From the manufacturer's point of view, the challenge is to provide solutions that offer real added value thanks to electricity. Numerous motor brands are emerging and positioning themselves in this market. TEMO is one of them, offering solutions tailored to the real needs of yachtsmen. Specialising in the propulsion of light craft, the French brand is completely rethinking the electric motor, focusing on ergonomics, weight and portability. This first step into electric power with TEMO offers boaters a high-performance, affordable alternative, ideal for low-speed cruising on canals and coasts. Easy to recharge using a simple household socket, these motors offer a smooth, silent and maintenance-free experience, making it easy to adopt this new technology.
The TEMO range for simple, sustainable navigation
The TEMO range of engines combines performance, simplicity and respect for the environment to meet the needs of boaters.
TEMO·450 electric motor
The TEMO·450 is the ideal companion for dinghies, rowing boats and small craft weighing up to 500 kg. With its 450 W, it is designed for short distances and harbour manoeuvres, offering a range of 60 minutes at moderate speed. Its light weight (less than 5 kg) and compact size make it easy to carry and store, while its telescopic handle makes it intuitive to use.
"This motor is incredibly simple. It can be installed in an instant and will find its place without cluttering up your boat. For short distances, the TEMO·450 makes an ideal adventure companion!" - Alice, TEMO·450 user.
TEMO·1000 electric motor
The TEMO·1000, designed for boats up to 1.3 tonnes, combines power with ergonomic design. With 1100 W, it ensures smooth, efficient navigation, even over longer distances. Its removable 5 kg battery makes recharging easy, while its 360° rotating chair and adjustable shaft ensure quick installation and optimum manoeuvrability.
« I was impressed by the power and design of the TEMO·1000. It installs in minutes and provides smooth, quiet navigation, even in a variety of conditions.’ - Paul, TEMO·1000 user.
As part of its ongoing drive to adopt an eco-responsible approach, TEMO is committed to both the environment and the development of the local economy. This commitment is reflected in the Origine France Garantie (OFG) label it has awarded to its two engines, certifying that they are entirely designed and assembled in France.
A network of local dealers
The TEMO range appeals to both beginners and experienced yachtsmen looking for simpler, more sustainable sailing, and is backed up by a solid network of dealers in the Netherlands to guarantee local service and provide the best possible customer experience.
“‘TEMO is a valuable addition to the electric motor market. We test all our motors ourselves. The responsiveness and power of TEMO motors are remarkable. What's more, the unique design is pleasing to the eye. The TEMO 1000 is particularly well suited to use as a tender motor. This engine is perfectly suited to the Highfield tenders that we frequently sell for a sailboat or motorboat. The fact that the engine is made in Europe is a plus. We're finding that more and more people are attaching importance to this.’ - Claudia, manager of the Medemblik boat shop.” - Claudia, manager of the Medemblik boat shop.
The aim is to create an effective network throughout the country, working with retailers who share the same values and believe in the quality and innovation of TEMO products. These partners, experts in their field, play a key role in supporting the brand and representing it in the field. Thanks to their expertise and commitment, TEMO dealers enable Dutch boaters to discover, test and adopt our electric motors, while guaranteeing quality follow-up and personalised advice.
Thanks to this network of dealers and test centres, TEMO is establishing itself as a key player in the field of lightweight, eco-responsible sailing in the Netherlands.
A local development strategy strengthened by the VIE programme
For several years now, TEMO has been a regular exhibitor at METS Amsterdam, one of Europe's leading boat shows. This recurring presence gives the brand the opportunity to meet distributors and industry professionals, and to present its innovations to a well-informed public.
Market recognition was not long in coming: in 2021, the TEMO·450 won the prestigious DAME Award, which recognises the most outstanding innovations in the marine industry. In 2023, the TEMO·1000 won the DAME Award Coup de Coeur, confirming the growing interest in our portable electrical solutions.
In addition to METS, TEMO is also present at trade fairs aimed at the general public, in partnership with its dealers. We regularly take part in events such as Boot Holland and HISWA, as well as more local events to meet Dutch boaters directly.
As part of its international expansion, TEMO is focusing on a local approach, using the Volontariat International en Entreprise (VIE) scheme. This strategy is designed to accelerate business development while building strong relationships with local players in the yachting industry.
The benefits of a V.I.E with TEMO
Since March 2023, Valentin, Business Developer North Europe on a VIE placement, has been driving TEMO's growth in the Netherlands. His role is essential in structuring the brand's presence in this key market. On the ground, he leads and develops the reseller network, while providing personalised support. His missions include :
- Identifying and integrating new partners to strengthen TEMO's commercial coverage.
- Training and support for retailers, to ensure they have full command of the products and deliver the best possible customer experience.
- Leading the network and coordinating sales initiatives, taking part in nautical events and developing appropriate local strategies.
- Increasing the brand's visibility by stepping up marketing initiatives and consolidating TEMO's reputation in the region.
Thanks to its proximity to the Dutch market, Valentin is able to understand the expectations of boaters and adapt its sales strategy accordingly. His commitment is helping to make TEMO a benchmark in the Northern European market, providing an innovative and sustainable response to the need for electric mobility on the water.
By combining innovation and sustainability, TEMO is pursuing an ambitious vision in which French manufacturing excellence takes centre stage. This approach resonates particularly well with the expectations of the Dutch market, which is renowned for its high standards of performance and quality. This recognition reinforces TEMO's position as a key player in the transition to electric yachts.
Continuing to grow, the company continues to innovate to meet the growing demand from boaters. As part of this drive, it is announcing the launch of its Seaside range, specially designed for shipyards, with Pods ranging from 450W to 3kW.
Discover the SEASIDE by TEMO range
Article co-written with Business France Netherlands.