Ports emit 18 million tonnes of carbon dioxide each year—equal to 18 million transatlantic flights. A new research project at the University of Skövde aims to reduce this impact by improving energy efficiency at the Port of Stockholm using an advanced energy management system within a microgrid concept.
Mostafa Kermani, Senior Lecturer in Electrical Engineering at the University of Skövde is project leader for Port Microgrid.
Currently, ships docked in ports rely on auxiliary engines to generate electricity. This not only increases CO2 emissions but also contributes to noise and air pollution. Onshore power supply (OPS) offers a greener alternative, allowing vessels to connect to the port’s electrical grid. The Port of Stockholm aims to ensure that all ships use OPS by 2030, but this transition brings challenges for the port’s energy infrastructure.
“OPS is an excellent way to reduce emissions in ports, but as energy demand continues to grow, we need more adaptable systems and innovative solutions for efficient energy storage,” says Mostafa Kermani, Senior Lecturer in Electrical Engineering at the University of Skövde.
Onshore power supply (OPS) offers a greener alternative, allowing vessels to connect to the port’s electrical grid. Photo: Ports of Stockholm
Combining Solar Energy with Battery Storage
The project integrates microgrid technology with solar power plants and battery energy storage systems to address rising energy demands. Microgrids, which efficiently manage both energy production and consumption, are ideal for port environments.
“By combining solar energy with battery storage, we can not only handle peak energy demands but also ensure a stable and sustainable power supply. This reduces the port's dependence on external energy sources,” says Mostafa Kermani.
Greener Ports Worldwide
Using microgrid technology, the Port of Stockholm aims to reduce emissions, enhance energy efficiency, and build a resilient infrastructure ready to meet future challenges.
"We are working strategically to meet EU regulations that require onshore connection for ships by 2030. This places high demands on the electricity grid, especially in the Port of Kapellskär where the current capacity is limited. In Kapellskär, the OPS facility already enables environmental benefits today. By integrating microgrids with OPS, we create a robust and sustainable solution that reduces the port's environmental impact and strengthens our competitiveness,” says Staffan Forsell, Chief Strategy and Development Officer at Ports of Stockholm.
Port of Kapellskär. Photo: Ports of Stockholm
Supported by Vinnova, this three-year research initiative, titled "Innovative Microgrid Design for Sustainable Onshore Power Supply: Port of Stockholm Case Study," will run from 2024 to 2027, laying the groundwork for greener ports worldwide. Other partners in the project are Ilmatar and Stella Futura.
What are Microgrids?
A microgrid is a self-sufficient energy system that can operate both in connection with the main power grid and independently. Think of it as a "mini power grid" that can generate, store, and distribute its own electricity within a specific area, such as a hospital, a school, or an entire village.
