Propulsion and Renewable Energy in Maritime Transport: An Integrated Design for Self-Sufficient Ships

Traditional propulsion systems in maritime transport heavily rely on internal combustion engines powered by fossil fuels. These systems contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, high operational costs, and complex maintenance routines. This article proposes an innovative propulsion system based on electric motors combined with renewable energy sources, including hydrogen fuel cells, solar power, wind turbines, and hydrodynamic energy harvesting. This integrated design maximizes energy efficiency by utilizing multiple renewable energy sources while reducing the ship's overall weight and spatial requirements. The use of hydrogen produced on-board via electrolysis ensures continuous energy availability. By replacing traditional piston-based engines, this system offers a sustainable and efficient alternative for maritime transport, aligning with global decarbonization goals. The analysis demonstrates the potential for significantly reduced emissions, operational cost savings, and enhanced energy efficiency.