Performance Analysis of a Hybrid Electric Ship by Real-Time Verification

Abstract

International maritime transport organizations are proposing regulatory actions and strategies aimed at decarbonizing the sector to reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, which currently constitute around 3% of the global total. Hybrid propulsion systems have significant potential in this respect, as a means of power-saving in ships. This paper describes a high-fidelity benchmark for hybrid-electric vessels, combining diesel generators and batteries. The benchmark consists of detailed models, the parameters of which are provided so that the models can be reproduced. The proposed hybrid-electric ship topology and control system was validated using real-time hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulations on a Typhoon HIL402 platform. The results provide a detailed analysis of the operation of the different components under varying conditions, which should be useful in prototyping these kinds of systems. In addition, the response of the system was evaluated with regard to potential disturbances resulting from the control system’s operation. The results show the system performed correctly during these transitory events, with no undesirable responses.