CRP Champions Sustainable River Freight Innovation with Partners

Earlier this month CRP was pleased to bring partners together for a dedicated event to experience the Lightning Clipper – a fully electric freight vessel developed by Thames Clippers.  

Despite the challenging weather, it was fantastic to see partners engaging directly with the vessel, including a behind-the-scenes look at its control centre. The event highlighted the value of collaboration, and the important role partnerships will continue to play in shaping the future of sustainable logistics in London. 

Events like this form a key part of CRP’s approach: convening partners to explore new, practical solutions that support a more efficient, resilient and sustainable London. As demand for goods continues to grow, there is an increasing need to diversify how freight moves across the capital. The River Thames presents a unique strategic asset, offering a congestion-free corridor capable of supporting greater modal shift, reducing reliance on road-based deliveries, and contributing to wider air quality, freight and decarbonisation goals. 

Additionally, the Lightning Clipper provides a strong example of how innovation is helping to unlock this potential. By combining river transport with low-emission technology, it demonstrates how freight operations can be both sustainable and commercially viable, while supporting the wider transition to cleaner supply chains. 

For any queries, please contact CRP Interim Director Fiona Coull