A novel Multi-Input Multi-Output energy model for future port operations

This paper addresses the development challenge of an optimal electrical energy infrastructure for the sustainable electrification of marine vessels. An innovative Multi-Input Multi-Output energy model is introduced to accurately represent the dynamic temporal interactions between port electrical infrastructure, any renewable energy sources and the electrical recharging demands of multiple hybrid and electric ferries. This increases the total carbon emissions saving potential through greater collaborative optimization between transport electrification and grid constraints. A sizing methodology is then embedded to support the optimal design of a reversible Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) for continuous operation in multiple scenarios which is considered the heart of the future port energy infrastructure due to increased limitations electricity grid incomer. A comprehensive simulation study using real-world data of Port of Dover has been conducted to evaluate the increase in port electricity requirements, and potential BESS solutions. The findings confirm that the proposed method could help to reduce the grid incomer capacity requirement from 8 MW to 3.41 MW. The proposed method effectively increases the unit of CO2 saved per MW electrical grid incomer capacity from 31.1 mtCO2/MW to 75.1 mtCO2/MW.