Development of a quick connect/disconnect power interface (“PLUG”) will allow a safe transfer of up to 30 MW between a carrier and harbour terminal.
The main objective of the project is to develop and put on the market a standard power interface between cargo vessels and harbour terminals allowing power exchange between the vessel and the electricity distribution network ashore.
The project focuses specifically on large tanker, carrying Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and Container Carriers (CC). The power interface can be connected and disconnected in few minutes, meaning that an LNG carrier may be able to exchange power with the local grid during at least 17 hours during each call, while a CC may be able to stay connected as long as the vessel remains in quay, basically 24 hours.
The planned interface will between the vessel electric system and the local network would allow either:
- Use vessel’s generators to provide power to the local grid
- Use local grid to supply the vessel’s electricity demand during loading/unloading (so-called “cold ironing)