The use of fossil fuels and the resulting greenhouse gas emissions from waterborne transport must be minimised as quickly as possible to achieve a climate-neutral society by 2050. 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 the 18th of February, and we will soon share updates on its progress.
Project partners: University of Birmingham, Blixt Tech, Commissariat a l’Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives, Compagnie du Ponant, DEIF A/S, DEIF Wind Power Technology Austria, Flanders Make, Infineon Technologies Austra, Jan De Nul, KAI Kompetenzzentrum Automobil - und Industrieelektronik, Rina Germany, Sintef Energi
