Survivability of Battery Energy Storage Systems During Shipboard Power Events

Battery applications in the marine industry have attracted significant attention over the last decade. Its relevance is often related to sustainable operations, grid reliability, efficiency, integration of renewable energy sources, and dc-grids onboard implementation. Despite these numerous advantages, designing an appropriate storage system for the shipboard ac network can prove not straightforward - even the simplest application, like providing additional grid ‘spinning reserve,’ can present a significant challenge. The difficulty stems from integrating a stationary energy source (with multiple controlling options) into a classical power system dominated by rotating synchronous generators and induction motors. This paper investigates the qualitative design issues of integrating a battery system through a grid converter into a dynamic position-type vessel. In each section, a comprehensive review of the main technical aspects affecting the storage system design is carried out. Finally, qualitative elements and required improvements for battery ‘spinning reserve’ mode integration are briefly discussed.