The process of connecting ships to offshore charging stations has long been a cumbersome task. Mooring lines must be carefully aligned, and electrical connections often require manual intervention. Now, a new magnetic plug-and-play solution aims to simplify this process to the level of inserting a cup into a holder.
Developed by Norwegian company Watts, the system uses strong electromagnetic fields to secure the connection between the ship and the charging station. The plug locks into place automatically when aligned, eliminating the need for precise manual adjustments. This reduces the time and effort required to establish a stable connection in open sea conditions.
The technology has undergone testing in the Trondheim Fjord, where it demonstrated reliability in rough waters. According to project manager Olav Breivik, the system can handle waves up to 2.5 meters without losing connection. This makes it suitable for commercial use in the North Sea and other exposed maritime regions.
Watts plans to commercialize the solution by next year. The company has partnered with Norwegian Electric Systems to integrate the plug into existing charging infrastructure. Industry analysts expect this to accelerate the adoption of zero-emission ships, which currently face logistical hurdles in offshore charging.
The innovation comes as Norway pushes to expand its fleet of electric ferries and cargo vessels. The government has allocated NOK 1.2 billion to support maritime electrification projects this year.
Source: tu.no