If you are a ship operator dealing with strict FuelEU Maritime and AFIR emission targets — this project developed an offshore connector that works with existing onboard systems. This means you can reduce pollutants without spending money on expensive vessel retrofitting.
Offshore Shore Power System for Ships to Reduce Port Emissions
Imagine a giant extension cord that reaches ships while they are still anchored a couple of kilometers away from the dock. Instead of running loud, dirty engines to keep the lights on, ships can just plug into the grid. It uses a smart cable and a semi-automatic plug so the crew doesn't have to struggle with heavy equipment in the water.
What needed solving
Ships currently burn auxiliary engines while anchored, causing high emissions and noise. Existing shore power is limited to the quay, leaving ships at anchorage unable to switch to clean electricity.
What was built
An offshore power supply system including a dynamic cable, a standard-compliant connector, a semi-automated coupling mechanism, a predictive control platform, and VR training modules.
Who needs this
Who can put this to work
If you are a port authority dealing with air quality regulations in anchorage areas — this project developed a scalable OPS solution located 1–2 km from the quayside. This allows you to electrify ships before they even reach the terminal.
If you are an engineering firm dealing with the challenge of delivering high voltage in marine environments — this project developed a dynamic offshore cable and monitoring platform. This provides a certified blueprint for deploying power systems in open water.
Quick answers
What is the cost or price of the system?
Based on available project data, the specific commercial price is not listed, though the project aims to demonstrate a cost-effective offshore OPS solution.
Is this solution ready for industrial scale?
Yes, the project targets TRL 8, meaning the system is fully integrated and designed to be scalable and repeatable across European anchorage areas.
How is the IP or licensing handled?
Based on available project data, specific licensing terms are not provided, but the system is developed to align with IEC/ISO/IEEE 80005 standards.
Which regulations does this help meet?
The system is designed to help operators meet FuelEU Maritime and AFIR targets for 2030 and 2050.
How long does the implementation take?
The project period runs from 2026-06-01 to 2029-05-31, indicating a three-year development and demonstration cycle.
How does it integrate with existing ships?
The vessel-side connector is fully compatible with IEC/ISO/IEEE 80005 standards, meaning it works with existing onboard shore power systems without needing retrofits.
Who built it
The consortium is highly industry-driven, with 8 partners across 5 countries. With a 50% industry ratio (4 industrial partners), the project is balanced between academic research (2 universities, 1 research institute) and practical application, ensuring the TRL 8 goal is supported by real-world operational expertise from port authorities and ship operators.
Contact STILLSTROM AS in Denmark for technical specifications on the offshore cable system.
Talk to the team behind this work.
Contact us to find similar TRL 8 maritime electrification technologies.