Blog
Onshore Power Supply - How to Prepare Your Port Infrastructure
for OPS Integration
In today’s modern world, sustainability and efficiency have emerged as top priorities for every business. And no, this is not only in terms of resources. The green agenda and transition to renewables became one of the main driving factors when it comes to shifting the business paradigm.
This transition is pressuring port authorities to find applicable solutions that will reduce emissions and cut operational costs. However, new challenges often lead to new opportunities. Onshore Power Supply (OPS) or cold ironing is a great example. In recent years, OPS has become not only “a nice-to-have” system for ports, but rather a necessity. Shipping companies will start choosing exclusively ports with Onshore Power Supply, since it offers savings for them as well.
However, transitioning to Onshore Power Supply will require thorough preparations of the port infrastructure. There are several considerations in front of the port authorities. In this article, we will break down the steps for successful integration of the OPS System.
Table of Contents
Main Challenges before starting a Project
Several key factors need to be considered before taking any actions towards transitioning to the Onshore Power Supply. It is crucial to assess the current situation and conditions in the port. That includes:
- The Assesment of Electrical Infrastructure
- Onshore Infrastructure & Integration
- Regulatory Frameworks and Standardization
- Automation & Control Systems
The Assessment of the Electrical Infrastructure
The port’s grid needs to be adjusted to have enough capacity to deliver a large amount of power. Port authorities need to analyse the existing transformer station, cable routes, and distribution network.
This assessment needs to provide answers to several questions. Is the power of Transformers sufficient? Is there a need for the new High-Voltage facilities? This assessment can be used to lay the foundation of the project and requires a detailed electrical engineering analysis.
Onshore Infrastructure & Integration
The physical installation of equipment on the quay might become a difficult task. Port authorities need to consider space for cables, the placement of connection cabinets, and many other infrastructure assessments. They need to consider the possibility of potential modification of existing structures. The new system design needs to be aligned with the infrastructure capacities, not to interfere with the port’s daily operations.
The seamless integration requires coordination of all works within the port environment. This means complete alignment of civil construction, electrical, and IT operations. It includes routing for high-voltage cables, adequate protection against environmental factors such as saltwater corrosion and mechanical damage, and compliance with relevant safety clearances. Also, it might be necessary to implement structural reinforcements to support the additional load of the OPS containerized unit. Additionally, the design needs to consider easy access for the maintenance team.
Regulatory Frameworks and Standardization
To ensure compatibility with various ships, OPS systems must comply with international standards, such as IEC/ IEEE 80005 (https://webstore.iec.ch/en/publication/29485). Knowledge of these regulations is crucial for avoiding costly mistakes and ensuring system functionality.
These standards are not limited only the electrical parameters for safe power transfer. They define the communication protocols, safety interlocks, as well as testing procedures that must be implemented.
Compliance with IEC 80005 standards facilitates the interoperability between ships and the port infrastructure worldwide. It is necessary to have early involvement of classification societies & regulatory authorities during the planning phase. With streamlined approvals, a lot of risks are being reduced, while it is ensured that the installation meets national safety requirements and international standards.
With over 35 years of experience in electrical engineering & automation, our team has delivered power infrastructure and control solutions across various industries - including port electrification projects. If you're exploring Onshore Power Supply or upgrading existing infrastructure, we can help you navigate the standards and build a system that fits.
Automation & Control Systems
The Onshore Power Supply is not just an outlet. A typical OPS System includes a lot of equipment. Besides containerized solutions for housing the hardware, equipment includes cable reels, connection systems (CRCS), and, most importantly, automation and control systems. This equipment ensures a safe connection, control voltage and frequency, and facilitates communication between the ship and the port.
Automation & Control System essentially represents the brain of the whole system. They are in charge of managing the entire connection and disconnection sequence, monitoring electrical parameters in real time, protecting against overloads or faults, and ensuring synchronization of voltage, frequency, and phase before power transfer. Furthermore, they facilitate seamless communication between shore and ship via standardized protocols such as IEC 61850 or Modbus. Proper setup of the automation & control system enables remote control, various integrations with the port energy management system, and future scaling.
Step by step to a Functional OPS System
The whole process can be divided into the 4 main phases:
Feasibility Study & Planning.
The first phase starts with an assessment of your port’s needs, followed by an analysis of the ships that dock and potential energy demands.
This phase defines the scope of the project, and it enables further economic assessment & justification.
Design & Engineering
The second phase is the technical phase, where detailed designs for electrical, mechanical, and civil works are created. The technical phase includes the selection of the optimal equipment and creating a precise, detailed integration plan.
Implementation & Integration.
The third phase is the execution phase. It includes the physical installation of equipment, laying cables, and building control systems. A partner with a turnkey approach can manage this entire process from start to finish.
How can we help? Preparing for OPS can be a complex and demanding process that requires deep expertise in various engineering fields. This is where a specialized partner like ICCE comes in handy. With over 35 years of experience in electrical engineering & automation, our team has delivered power infrastructure and control solutions across various industries, including port electrification projects. If you're exploring Onshore Power Supply or upgrading existing infrastructure, we can help you navigate the standards and build a system that fits.
Conclusion
The integration of Onshore Power Supply is not just a technological upgrade; it is an investment in the future of sustainable maritime transport. By carefully planning and partnering with the right experts, you can ensure that your port is ready for this change. The benefits – reduced emissions, lower operational costs, and improved public perception – far outweigh the initial challenges.
Are you ready to take the first step?
Contact us today to learn how ICCE can help you prepare your port for OPS integration.
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