The Maritime industry is undergoing a significant transformation as Sustainability and emissions reduction become operational imperatives.
Multiple offshore energy solutions are emerging to meet these challenges:
At the forefront of this shift are offshore virtual power plants (VPPs) which are integrated networks that combine offshore wind turbines, floating solar arrays, and hybrid energy storage systems. By aggregating these distributed resources as a unified power source, offshore VPPs optimise Renewable Energy production and enhance grid stability. Their offshore positioning enables efficient energy harvesting without occupying valuable coastal/terrestrial space.
Floating platform-to-ship (P2S) systems are another innovative solution enabling sustainable maritime operations. These platforms act as floating charging stations, delivering renewable electricity directly to ships during anchorage. By replacing conventional auxiliary engines with clean energy supplied from these platforms, vessels significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions while stationary.
Strategically located Offshore Energy hubs are designed to provide sustainable power to anchored ships and support bunkering activities using green energy. These hubs serve as multi-functional platforms, enabling ship-to-ship energy transfers and on-site Renewable Energy generation.
Purpose-built mooring and power platforms complement these systems by providing stable anchorage points alongside direct renewable energy supply. Helping reduce overall emissions and reliance on onboard fossil fuel generators.
And from a recruitment standpoint, an influx of Maritime Electrification roles will emerge. New positions around M&O of floating charging platforms, electric bunkering stations, and offshore energy hubs are being created.
Marine and Renewable Energy are more interconnected than ever before.
Source: Alexander Micallef, Maurice Apap, John Licari, Cyril Spiteri Staines, Zhaoxia Xiao, Renewable energy systems in offshore platforms for sustainable maritime operations, Ocean Engineering, Volume 319, 2025, 120209, ISSN 0029-8018,
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.oceaneng.2024.120209.