Maritime CleanTech, with €7.8 million in EU funding, is partnering to develop a future-proof power system for the shipping industry. Recognizing that current shipping vessels produce significant emissions and utilize power systems incompatible with renewable energy sources, this initiative aims to create a cleaner, more sustainable solution for the next generation of ships, reports Maritime Cleantech.
New Distribution System
A new power distribution system designed for zero-emission ships will be developed by a consortium of leading Norwegian and European partners, with Maritime CleanTech at the helm. This system aims to simplify the integration of green energy sources onboard and enhance the efficiency of current technologies, leading to significant emission reductions.
“The Norwegian maritime industry is a global leader in green solutions, and with this EU collaboration, we are taking another technological leap. This will provide Norwegian companies with new export opportunities while creating jobs and reducing emissions,” says Climate and Environment Minister Andreas Bjelland-Eriksen.
With stricter international regulations and increased costs for ship emissions on the horizon, the STEESMAT project is a vital component of the EU’s commitment to green shipping. The project aims to commercialize the new technology by 2029, creating substantial market opportunities for Norwegian companies in both new shipbuilding and the retrofitting of existing vessels.
Cutting Down Emissions
The STEESMAT project focuses on developing an innovative medium-voltage direct current (MVDC) power system to replace traditional alternating current systems. This MVDC system will allow engines to operate more efficiently at varying speeds and simplify the integration of diverse green energy sources, such as batteries, solar panels, fuel cells, and wind power, on large ships.
The STEESMAT system is also designed to reduce ship weight and improve energy efficiency. With potential emission reductions of up to 40%, this project represents a significant technological advancement, demonstrating the leadership of Norwegian and European industries in creating a more sustainable maritime sector.
Ada M. Jakobsen, CEO of Maritime CleanTech, commented, “The EU’s 90 million NOK support enables us to develop solutions that not only reduce emissions but also simplify the integration of various sustainable energy sources. I am proud of our partners, who are working together to create a more efficient and climate-friendly shipping industry.”
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Source: Maritime Cleantech
