Electrically powered systems in the maritime industry

The following electrical systems are used in the maritime industry:

1. Propulsion

• Fully electric ships
• Hybrid systems: Combination of diesel engines and electric drive for fuel economy.
• Pod drives and azimuth thrusters: Electrically powered propellers for improved manoeuvrability.

2. On-board systems

• Navigation equipment: Radar, GPS, sonar, AIS.
• Communication systems: VHF radio, satellite communication.
• Lighting: Indoor and outdoor lighting, including emergency lighting.
• HVAC systems: Heating, ventilation and air conditioning.

3. Charging systems and energy storage

• Batteries and battery management systems: For energy storage and peak load.
• Shore power supply: Electrical power supplied from the quay to reduce emissions in the port.

4. Automation and monitoring

• PLC systems: For controlling motors, pumps, ballast systems.
• SCADA systems: For centralised monitoring of electrical and mechanical systems.
• Sensors and actuators: For real-time data and automatic adjustments.

5. Safety systems

• Fire detection and suppression: Electronically controlled systems.
• Alarm and surveillance systems: CCTV, access control.
• Stability systems: Gyroscopes and electric stabilisers.

For more information, please refer to the sections below.

1. Introduction to developments within the maritime industry
3. Standards and guidelines
4. Electric ship propulsion
5. Testing electric ship propulsion