GSS EU Science Funding Gateway

In order to address the above-mentioned challenge, proposals are expected to address all the following aspects:

• Develop high TRL innovative power electronic systems (e.g. converters, circuit breakers with logic selectivity) adapted and certified for waterborne transport applications.
• Develop a new concept of smart, flexible, plug-and-play DC power grid which leverages the capability of new power electronic systems and allows for different DC power generation systems based on sustainable alternative energy sources.
• Research the impact of design choices, safety measures and integration on the ship. This will require the development and on-board integration of high-power equipment and systems to complement the electrical grid (e.g. solid-state protection, solid-state transformers, Silicon-Carbide Power Devices,
• Develop a prototype system at small scale (min. 100kW) within a real waterborne transport environment. Demonstrate the functionality and the integration of its components, prove the possibilities for further upscaling. Prove the feasibility and benefits of distributing main power based on DC instead of AC.
• Validate the system with classification societies ensuring the highest standards for safety and reliability.
• Develop standards for on-board DC microgrids and communication protocols which are particularly valuable for large ships where there is differentiation between the electrical supplies towards different zones (e.g. zones with ICE and zones with RES systems).
• Integrate new power electronic systems within the ship’s network with advanced control systems to cope with variable loads and high levels of DC currents to interrupt.
• The emissions, efficiency and operational savings are expected to be demonstrated on a relevant ship type to validate the research results. The transferability of the applications to be applied has to be proven towards a range of vessel types, including those which have larger battery systems and longer autonomy. The demonstration is expected to serve as a reference for a wide spectrum of ship’s types using electrical propulsion and auxiliary power.
• Where relevant, synergies and collaboration should be planned with the related activities and projects arising from linked Horizon Europe initiatives, in particular the Batteries and Clean Hydrogen JU partnerships.
• Plan for the exploitation and dissemination of results should include a strong business case and sound exploitation strategy, as outlined in the introduction to this Destination. The exploitation plans should include preliminary plans for scalability, commercialisation, and deployment (feasibility study, business plan) indicating the possible funding sources to be potentially used.