Past, Present and Future Challenges of the Marine Vessel's Electrical Power System

Abstract

The evolution of the use of electricity in marine vessels is presented and discussed in this article in an historical perspective. The historical account starts with its first commercial use in the form of light bulbs on the SS Columbia in 1880 for illumination, going forward through use in hybrid propulsion systems with steam turbines and diesel engines and then transitioning to the present with the first fully electric marine vessel based entirely on the use of batteries in 2015. Electricity use is discussed not only in the light of its many benefits but also of the challenges introduced after the emergence of the marine vessel electrical power system. The impact of new conversion technologies like power electronics, battery energy storage, and the DC power system on overall energy efficiency, power quality, and emission level is discussed thoroughly. The article guides the reader through this development, the present and future challenges by calling attention to the future research needs and the need to revisit standards that relate to power quality, safety, integrity, and stability of the marine vessel power system, which are strongly impacted by the way electricity is used in the marine vessel.