Maritime Energy Transition: Innovations and Key Issues
The electrification of maritime fleets and inland fleets is today a major issue in the energy transition. During the technical day of the AFBE (French Association for the Electric Boat), which took place at the Paris-Yacht Marina, experts highlighted innovations related to electric and hybrid propulsion systems. This event was an opportunity to present technological solutions for the charging and powering of vessels, while addressing essential themes such as regulation, infrastructure and feedback on recent projects.
The advent of electric and hybrid systems for boats
The day began with a series of presentations on charging systems for electric vessels. The focus was on innovative energy refuelling solutions and the evolution of international standards. Among the technologies highlighted were connectors inspired by the automotive industry, such as the Combo CCS and ISO 15118, which ensure both interoperability and safety.
Automatic charging systems, such as inverted pantographs, have also been presented. These technologies, already used for urban electric buses, simplify dockside charging operations and reduce human intervention.
Charging technologies for electric and hybrid boats
The electrification of boats relies on essential components:
- Onboard charger (OBC) : Located on board the vessel, the onboard charger converts the alternating current (AC) supplied by the terminal into direct current (DC) to power the batteries. Modern OBCs support variable power levels, generally ranging from 3.7 kW to 22 kW.
- Charge controller (EVCC) : This component ensures communication between the vessel, the terminal, and the battery. It manages safety and optimises charging by following standardised protocols such as theISO 15118, European standard already widespread in the automotive world, which integrates features such as Plug & Charge, or vehicle to grid (V2G), offering prospects for future applications. Some OBC models already incorporate the features offered by the EVCC.offrant des perspectives d'applications futures. Certains modèles OBC intègrent déjà les fonctionnalités proposées par l'EVCC.
- Type 2 and Combo CCS connectors : These standardised connectors allow for AC charging (up to 43 kW) and DC charging (up to 350 kW). Their versatility makes them essential for modern infrastructure.
Feedback from Weenav
During the technical day, Antoine Bouchez, co-founder of Weenav, presented innovative solutions for integrating charging systems into electric propulsion. Weenav uses standards such as ISO 15118 to offer solutions tailored to the different needs of maritime and river fleets.
- Standardised integration: Weenav's systems include onboard chargers, charging controllers EVCC and Combo CCS. These solutions ensure fast, secure charging that complies with international standards.
- Adaptation to existing infrastructures: Weenav can intervene to optimise or modernise existing systems. This includes adding charging components, reducing operating costs, and improving energy performance.
- Flexibility for hybrid configurations: Weenav's solutions adapt to hybrid fleets, allowing for a gradual transition to electricity while reducing the carbon footprint.
Prospects for maritime decarbonisation
The AFBE event was also an opportunity to revisit the broader issues of energy transition. The technological advancements presented, combined with investments in infrastructure, constitute a clear roadmap for decarbonising fleets.
With players like Weenav, who combine technical expertise and integration flexibility, the maritime sector is on the right track to meet the challenges related to electrification. Events like the AFBE technical day help to consolidate knowledge and accelerate this essential transition.
Published on: 31/12/2024
Editor: Sophie Castelain