Canada’s Ocean Supercluster (OSC) and Innovate UK have jointly announced the CanUK Vessel-to-Grid Project, a pioneering $2.3 million initiative aimed at advancing electric-first vessels and integrating them with the power grid. This transatlantic collaboration seeks to reduce the costs associated with marine electrification and enhance the sustainability of the electric grid.
The CanUK Vessel-to-Grid Project brings together a diverse group of stakeholders from both sides of the Atlantic, including academic institutions, marine companies, Indigenous communities, electricity companies, and innovation hubs. The project will be led in Canada by BlueGrid in Halifax, NS, and in the UK by the University of Plymouth, with significant involvement from partners such as RS Electric Boats, Aqua SuperPower, and RAD Propulsion.
Project Overview
- Lead Organizations: BlueGrid (Canada), University of Plymouth (UK)
- Funding: $2.3 million total, with $550,000 from Canada’s Ocean Supercluster and additional funds from Innovate UK and other project partners
- Partners: Lennox Island First Nation, Dalhousie University, Center for Ocean Ventures and Entrepreneurship (COVE), RS Electric Boats, Aqua SuperPower, RAD Propulsion
Project Goals
The CanUK project aims to develop scalable commercial-grade vessel-to-grid technology and deploy it in real-world settings across Halifax and Plymouth. Key objectives include:
- Reducing Emissions: By integrating electric vessels with the grid, the project aims to cut down on carbon emissions and promote cleaner maritime operations.
- Enhancing Energy Security: The project will explore bi-directional energy flow, allowing vessels to supply power back to the grid, thus enhancing energy security and stability.
- Capacity Building: Through collaborations with Indigenous communities and academic institutions, the project will focus on skills training and capacity building in the marine sector.
Technological Focus
Researchers will adapt automotive technologies for marine applications, with extensive lab testing to understand battery performance under various conditions. The installation of bi-directional chargers will enable energy exchange between the grid and electric vessels, facilitating a smoother transition to green maritime solutions.
Strategic Impacts
This initiative is expected to generate significant intellectual property, forge new commercial relationships, and create momentum for marine electrification in both Canada and Europe. By establishing vessel-to-grid standards, the project will contribute to global efforts in clean maritime technology and sustainable energy practices.
Statements and Outlook
Sarah Fear, Project and Knowledge Exchange Manager at the University of Plymouth, highlighted the importance of this collaboration, stating, “Through its projects and collaborations, the University is at the forefront of research and innovation that has led to advances in harbour infrastructure and vessel performance.”
The CanUK project is poised to make substantial contributions to the marine sector, proving the value of vessel-to-grid integration, and paving the way for cost-effective and environmentally friendly maritime solutions.