With new microgrid technology and onshore power supply, Ports of Stockholm is taking further steps to meet future energy needs and strengthen port operations sustainability, the company claimed.
Ports of Stockholm and its partners are launching a project that combines onshore power supply (OPS) and microgrid technology. This initiative will reduce emissions, improve energy efficiency and increase port capacity to meet future demands for sustainable energy use.
Funded by the Swedish Innovation Agency Vinnova within the programme System Demonstrator Sustainable Port, the project is being led by the University of Skövde in collaboration with Stella Futura and Ilmatar.
By integrating renewable energy and advanced energy management systems, energy efficiency can be improved, emissions reduced and the operational resilience of the port increased.
The system’s demonstration, carried out at Kapellskär, will show the way for future green port solutions.
“We are working strategically to meet EU regulations that require onshore connection for ships by 2030. This places high demands on the electricity grid, especially in the Port of Kapellskär where the current capacity is limited.
“In Kapellskär, the OPS facility already enables environmental benefits today. By integrating microgrids with OPS, we create a robust and sustainable solution that reduces the port’s environmental impact and strengthens our competitiveness,” said Staffan Forsell, Chief Strategy and Development Officer at Ports of Stockholm.
To meet current challenges, such as limited grid capacity and increased loads, while optimising OPS needs, the project will develop a comprehensive microgrid solution that combines solar cell systems, battery energy storage systems (BESS) and an advanced energy management system (EMS).
This solution will ensure a reliable power supply, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and strengthen the port’s resilience to disruptions, it was claimed.
“This project is an important step towards greener and more efficient port operations. By using the latest microgrid technology, we are meeting the demands of the future while contributing to sustainable development,” added Mostafa Kermani, Senior Lecturer in Electrical Engineering at the University of Skövde.
The project, called ‘Innovative Microgrid Design for Sustainable Onshore Power Supply: Port of Stockholm case study’, runs between 2024 and 2027. A demonstration is taking place at Kapellskär and is part of a long-term strategy to create sustainable port environments.
Ilmatar is an independent power producer (IPP) and a leading player in the Nordic renewable energy market. It generates clean energy from wind and solar, in a large-scale, long-term sustainable and efficient way. With energy storage capacity, the company also contributes to a more flexible energy ecosystem.
Stella Futura works on the design, integration and financing of renewable energy systems with a focus on energy storage for commercial and industrial use.
