E-MOBILITY
STATE-OF-PLAY According to Cairns, while a selection of shoreside charging devices are beginning to enter the market, it’s offshore charging solutions that truly hold the keys to electrification. “Offshore charging can provide 100%
emissions-free electricity by drawing power directly from renewable sources, like offshore wind, without vessels needing to return to port to charge, significantly reducing downtime by extending their operational time on water,” he says. “At Charge Offshore, we have recently introduced a range of offshore charging solutions specifically for O&M fleets. Our Aquarius Eco device can supply 0.5-2MW of power, making it the ideal choice for crew transfer vessels, while Aquarius Plus can supply 2-8MW to larger SOVs. Both devices have been designed from the ground up to deliver emissions-free power to electric and hybrid vessels at sea by connecting directly to wind turbines, offshore substations, floating and fixed foundations, and other structures.”
ELECTRIC BENEFITS “There are countless benefits of embracing electrification,” Cairns continues. “Aside from offering more comfortable travel unaccompanied by the whir of a turning engine, lower noise pollution for passers-by and wildlife, zero water and air pollution and much higher safety standards than traditional ICE-powered engines, perhaps the most important advantage to switching from diesel to battery-power is the ability to significantly reduce operational costs.” As Cairns explains, using electric
propulsion eliminates dependence on volatile oil prices and reduces requirements, as the vehicles contain fewer moving parts. In the long- term, switching to electric could help operators to avoid hefty non- compliance costs associated with strengthening decarbonisation regulatory requirements. “For example, the emissions trading
scheme (ETS), which imposes taxes on high carbon-emitting freight and cargo fleets, is currently being expanded to include smaller vessels,” Cairns explains. “Now under discussion to commence in 2027, many SOVs will fall under the new weight category and be liable for such
20
www.engineerlive.com
Offshore charging can provide emissions-free electricity for vessels by drawing power from renewable sources
taxes. As the legislation evolves over time, we’d fully expect the scheme to be expanded further to include even lighter vessels, including CTVs.” Additionally, battery-powered
vessels that are supported by robust charging infrastructure could help wind farm operators to avoid these costs without needing to develop the high CAPEX and OPEX supply chains required by alternative fuels like green hydrogen and ammonia. “Batteries offer significantly more energy- efficient propulsion by eliminating the energy lost during electrolysation, storage, transport and combustion of such fuels, providing a much more direct and cost effective transfer of energy,” Cairns adds.
CHARGING CHALLENGES Vessels operating in offshore environments face harsh conditions, from saltwater corrosion and high winds to rough seas. These conditions impose very specific constraints on equipment design, meaning it is absolutely critical to develop durable, low-maintenance systems for long- term viability and cost effectiveness that rival diesel refuelling infrastructure. “In-air charging systems, which
are attached directly to fixed and floating platforms, are the perfect solution for overcoming this technical requirement,” says Cairns. “Being positioned out of the water and well clear of the splash zone, in-air systems are far more durable and easier to maintain than buoy-based alternatives and offer more cost-effective long- term charging capabilities.” He continues, “The second, even
more vital piece of the puzzle to be addressed is safety. O&M fleet crews need assurance that they’re able to safely handle battery charging in all weather conditions. It’s therefore critical that hands-free connection, disconnection and overload release protection are built into offshore charging solutions as standard.”
INTO THE FUTURE Looking ahead to what the future could hold for electric propulsion within the offshore sector, Cairns reasons, “Although we’ve seen a recent uptick in electric and hybrid marine solutions, it is unlikely that a fully electric fleet will be functional by 2050 without effective and robust shoreside and offshore charging capabilities.” However, he predicts advanced
charging systems will be the key enabler for wind farm operators and the wider maritime industry to achieve a low carbon maritime future. “As the decarbonisation agenda and regulatory environment continues to evolve, fleet operators will be encouraged to rethink their vessel requirements and increasingly opt for lower carbon yet cost effective alternatives,” he foretells. “To fully realise a net zero future,
governments, the supply chain and technology providers must collaborate on scaling solutions, ensuring that the necessary infrastructure, regulatory frameworks and financing are all in place,” Cairns continues. “By investing in offshore charging systems today, we are not only addressing the immediate need for maritime decarbonisation, but also building a sustainable foundation for the clean energy economy of tomorrow.”
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48
