“Like putting a cup into a holder:” Electric ships could soon be charging at sea

A consortium of Norwegian companies and research institutes has developed an innovative magnetic inductive charging system designed to enable battery-powered service vessels to recharge at sea. Led by shipbuilder Vard alongside SINTEF and NORCE under the Ocean Charger project, the technology offers a “plug and play” solution that simplifies the charging process, likened to the ease of placing a cup into a holder. This development aims to support emission-free operations for vessels servicing offshore wind farms by utilising the renewable energy generated on-site. Traditional charging methods for vessels have faced significant challenges due to mechanical wear, corrosion, and maintenance issues caused by exposure to harsh marine environments. The Ocean Charger team addressed these problems by creating a fully encapsulated magnetic inductive charger that transfers power wirelessly through aligned magnetic coils, eliminating the need for physical electrical contacts. This design not only enhances durability but also allows for flexible alignment during connection, making it highly practical for use in rough sea conditions. The system involves a magnetic coil on a flexible cable extending from a charging station, potentially mounted on an offshore wind turbine, which connects to a corresponding coil housed in the vessel’s receptacle. Power is transmitted via a magnetic field, requiring complex electrical conversions both onshore and onboard vessels to ensure efficient and safe battery charging. The project’s success in managing these technical challenges marks a significant step forward in maritime electrification. Beyond servicing offshore wind farms, the Ocean Charger technology holds promise for broader maritime applications, including platform supply vessels in the oil industry. By enabling reliable, high-power charging at sea, this innovation could accelerate the transition to cleaner shipping operations and reduce the carbon footprint of marine service fleets. The consortium’s work represents a notable advance in integrating renewable energy with electric maritime transport.