A key factor in this decarbonisation effort is the rapid expansion of low-carbon power sources and energy storage.
To support this transition, shipboard power systems need to integrate high-power components and protection devices—particularly DC-DC power converters and DC switchgear—more efficiently. While several vessels have already adopted DC primary grids, their secondary grids have largely remained similar to traditional AC-based solutions.
This project represents a significant opportunity to unlock new capabilities and functionalities in secondary DC grids that enhance both safety and operational efficiency on vessels. By integrating these advanced components with existing power converters and protection measures in the primary grids, the risk of blackouts due to faults can be reduced, thereby improving the overall reliability of the power supply.
The project was successfully kicked off in Brussels on 18 February, and we will soon share updates on its progress.
SINTEF Energy Research leads two tasks and a WP. “We will be mostly responsible for designing the protection system on the vessel for the demo and to test numerically the energy management system,” says Chief Scientist Salvatore d’Arco.
The project will advance the electrification of maritime transport with a fully DC-based architecture, including the secondary network supplying hotel loads. There will be developments on power converters with wide bandgap components, smart protection devices and energy management systems for better overall efficiency.
Project partners:
- University of Birmingham
- Blixt Tech
- Commissariat a l’Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives
- Compagnie du Ponant
- Deif
- Deif Wind Power Technology Austria
- Flanders Make
- Infineon Technologies Austra
- Jan De Nul
- KAI Kompetenzzentrum Automobil - und Industrieelektronik
- Rina Germany
- Sintef Energi
