First DC power grid on board a ship

The equipment will allow a new offshore platform support vessel under construction in Norway to operate at the highest energy efficiency level to minimise emissions.

In traditional electrical propulsion vessels, multiple DC connections are made to thrusters and propulsion drives from an alternating current (AC) circuit, accounting for more than 80% of electrical power consumption. ABB’s Onboard DC Grid represents a step forward in optimised propulsion by distributing power through a single DC circuit providing significant power savings.

ABB’s Onboard DC Grid is part of a revival of power solutions using DC, and will provide highly efficient power distribution and electric propulsion for a wide range of vessels. It is designed for ships with low voltage on board circuits, such as offshore support vessels and tugs. It can reduce fuel consumption and emissions by up to 20%.

ABB will provide its full Onboard DC system, including all power, propulsion and automation systems for the 93m long, 5,000 ton multi-purpose oil field supply and construction vessel, which is scheduled for delivery in the first quarter of 2013.