In the vast, isolated expanses of the ocean, powering marine microgrids has long been a challenge, often relying on fossil fuels and grappling with intermittent renewable energy sources. But a novel study published in the journal *Engineering Proceedings* offers a promising solution, potentially reshaping the future of marine energy management.
Led by Aimad Boudoucha from the Laboratory of Electrical Industrial Systems (LSEI) at the University of Sciences & Technology Houari Boumediene in Algiers, the research introduces an advanced optimal strategy for power management and frequency control in marine microgrids. The system integrates renewable energy sources—wind, marine, and notably, an offshore photovoltaic (PV) array—coordinated with hybrid energy storage devices.
“The intermittency of wind and marine power generation has always been a hurdle,” Boudoucha explains. “Our study employs a robust optimal PIDN controller to tackle these challenges, ensuring precise frequency control and enhancing the overall efficiency of the microgrid.”
The research also implements a multiple-energy storage system, including superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES), batteries, ultra-capacitors (UCs), and fuel cells (FCs). This setup manages frequency variations and optimizes the charge/discharge cycles of batteries, extending their lifespan. A low-pass filter inspired by optimization techniques further mitigates power fluctuations, reducing wear and tear on the batteries.
The study’s comprehensive comparative analysis explores various scenarios, including systems with and without energy storage, with the integration of PV energy, and excluding diesel use. The results underscore significant improvements in sustainability, efficiency, and a reduced dependence on fossil fuels.
“This research presents a viable and sustainable option for powering marine microgrids,” Boudoucha states. “It showcases the potential of this strategy for future marine microgrid applications, contributing significantly to the advancement of renewable energy management systems.”
The implications for the energy sector are substantial. As the world increasingly turns to renewable energy sources, the ability to efficiently manage and store energy in isolated environments like marine microgrids becomes crucial. This research could pave the way for more reliable, sustainable, and cost-effective energy solutions in the marine sector, potentially influencing similar applications on land.
With preliminary results pointing to considerable improvements in energy management, the study offers a glimpse into a future where marine microgrids are powered sustainably and efficiently, reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and enhancing energy security. As the energy sector continues to evolve, innovations like these will be key to shaping a more sustainable and resilient energy landscape.