A recent study led by Qinghua Mao from the School of Economics and Management at Yanshan University has proposed a novel approach for selecting renewable energy sources for offshore ship charging stations (OSCS) in China. Published in the journal Heliyon, this research addresses the growing need for sustainable energy solutions as the maritime industry shifts towards electric vessels.
As electric ships become more prevalent for ocean voyages, the infrastructure to support them, such as OSCS, is essential. These charging stations require careful consideration of the energy sources used for power generation. The study introduces a fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) framework that effectively navigates the complexities of selecting the optimal renewable energy source amidst various uncertainties and conflicting criteria.
Mao’s team developed a comprehensive criteria system to evaluate potential energy sources, incorporating expert opinions through intuitionistic fuzzy sets. This method allows for a more nuanced understanding of experts’ assessments, acknowledging the ambiguity often present in decision-making processes. The researchers also introduced a new expert weighting method and utilized the generalized intuitionistic fuzzy weighted geometric interaction averaging (GIFWGIA) operator to combine evaluations, ensuring a robust analysis.
The study employed established methods like the intercriteria correlation (CRITIC) and the stepwise weight assessment ratio analysis II (SWARA II) to assign weights to the criteria, further enhancing the decision-making process. One of the key innovations was the use of the gained and lost dominance score (GLDS) method for ranking the energy alternatives, which considers both individual and group ranks while accounting for criteria compensation.
The case study conducted on Pingtan Island in Fujian Province revealed that wind energy emerged as the most favorable option for OSCS, followed by solar, wave, and nuclear energy. This finding has significant implications for the renewable energy sector and the maritime industry. As companies look to invest in electric shipping infrastructure, understanding which energy sources are most viable can guide strategic decisions and investments.
Mao emphasizes the importance of this research, stating, “The proper selection of the energy source for power generation is a key part of the OSCS project.” This highlights the potential for commercial opportunities in the renewable energy sector, particularly as the demand for clean energy solutions in maritime operations continues to grow.
The implications of this study extend beyond China, offering a framework that can be adapted by other countries looking to enhance their offshore charging infrastructure. As the global maritime industry moves towards electrification, the prioritization of renewable energy sources will play a crucial role in achieving sustainability goals, making this research not only timely but also essential for future developments in the sector.
