Power Barge Microgrids as Flexible Harbor Energy Hubs: Pathway to More Sustainable Ports
Abstract
Global maritime transport accounts for nearly 80% of international trade and contributes around 3% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. While onshore power supply (OPS) has emerged as an effective measure to eliminate emissions from auxiliary engines (AEs) during port stays, its deployment remains largely restricted to fixed quayside infrastructure. Consequently, significant emissions at anchorage and during offshore operations remain insufficiently addressed despite increasing regulatory pressure to reduce maritime emissions. This article presents the power barge (PB) concept, a mobile floating energy hub designed to extend shore-side electrification to harbor areas and further to near-shore and offshore environments. Two deployment pathways are considered, ranging from highly mobile near-shore units to larger offshore energy hubs (OEHs). The article further outlines key interface technologies that enable safe and reliable power transfer under varying marine conditions. In addition, critical design elements are discussed, including hybrid energy configurations and alternative AC and DC power architectures, demonstrating the technical feasibility and operational flexibility of PB systems. The hybrid microgrid is powered by batteries and hydrogen fuel cells, forming a zero-emission energy portfolio. The results highlight how PBs can complement conventional OPS infrastructure and support ports and vessel operators in meeting evolving decarbonization requirements across diverse maritime operating environments.