Hybrid power systems have significant potential to contribute to the marine and offshore industries’ decarbonization targets.

That is why ABS has published the Guide for Hybrid Electric Power Systems for Marine and Offshore Applications that focuses on systems integrating electric power generation and storage technologies with conventional power generation. The Guide also introduces a new notation, HYBRID IEPS, with options to recognize a range of specialized operating modes.

This Guide provides requirements for the design, construction, retrofit, testing and survey of vessels utilizing hybrid electric power systems. The unique requirements for the design, installation, and testing of hybrid electric power systems on yachts are also addressed.

“Hybrid electric power systems offer the opportunity to improve safety, reliability, operational efficiency and reduce the fuel consumption, environmental footprint and equipment maintenance when compared to traditional electrical power systems,” said Patrick Ryan, ABS Senior Vice President, Global Engineering and Technology. “ABS has long supported shipowners looking to utilize this technology and is an industry leader in developing guidance that advances safer integration of hybrid power systems into marine and offshore assets.”

The Marine and Ports division of leading global technology company ABB has provided input for the Guide based on the company’s technical competence and extensive experience with hybrid electric power systems.

“We believe an increasing proportion of modern ships will be built on the foundation of electricity and so hybrid electrical power systems are a key technology for the future of the marine industry. The detailed guidance developed by ABS will support the adoption and safe operation of this technology by the industry,” said Jostein Bogen, ABB Marine & Ports Vice President, Global Product Manager Energy Storage & Fuel Cells.

ABS has developed a range of industry-leading support for hybrid electric technologies including:  Guide for Use of Lithium Batteries in the Marine and Offshore Industries; Guide for Use of Supercapacitors in the Marine and Offshore Industries; Guide for Fuel Cell Power Systems for Marine and Offshore Applications; and Guide for Direct Current Power Distribution Systems for Marine and Offshore Applications,  among others. These can be accessed here.

The Guide for Hybrid Electric Power Systems for Marine and Offshore Applications can be downloaded here.