MARPOWER project
Revolutionizing maritime decarbonization: Innovative energy conversion systems using renewable net-zero fuels
| Business | Period | Project Coordinator | Funding Scheme |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marine | September 2024 - August 2028 | LAPPEENRANNAN-LAHDEN TEKNILLINEN YLIOPISTO LUT |
Horizon Europe |
Challenge
The MARPOWER project aims to contribute to the decarbonization of maritime vessels through the development of an innovative and flexible energy conversion system. This system is designed to utilize genuinely renewable net-zero fuels, such as green methane, green methanol, hydrogen, and ammonia, in a highly energy-efficient manner, with minimal or no modification required for the combustion system. The project involves the creation of a gas turbine combustor specifically engineered for alternative fuels, and an active magnetic bearing (AMB) system-supported two-shaft gas turbine with a bottoming cycle, intended to optimize both the performance and efficiency of power generation and utilization on board ships.
Prototypes of critical system components, including the combustion chamber, high-pressure shaft system, and recuperator, will be developed and tested to optimize system design. Additionally, a moving platform will be designed and constructed to simulate ship movements during the testing of the AMB system. A Digital Twin will create a virtual replica of the gas-turbine-based energy conversion system and its components, enabling simulation of the system’s processes as well as modeling of the energy conversion processes and power supply for cargo and cruise ships, applicable for both electric ship propulsion and cogeneration applications.
Approach
RINA is a prominent member of the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS), and we are well-known for our expertise in regulatory compliance and safety evaluation.
Our evaluation process follows established engineering principles and standards, ensuring the technology system meets safety and operational criteria for turbine marinization.
For the MARPOWER project, we will analyze integration constraints such as on-board feasibility, fluid supply, exhausts, and electrical power. The basic layout will be reviewed against marine safety codes.
Our involvement ensures the proposed technology system is safe, reliable, and compliant with relevant standards. Their expertise and rigorous assessment verify that the system is ready for operational deployment and adheres to the highest levels of safety and regulatory compliance.
Conclusion
The MARPOWER project aims to develop new expert knowledge, as well as generate, collect, process, and analyze data from multiple sources. The tasks involved in the six work packages and two vessel integration case studies include stakeholder engagement, data management, and dissemination.
Funded by the European Union under grant agreement No 101138341. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
