A THEMATIC REVIEW OF ONSHORE POWER SUPPLY CHALLENGES

Nicoleta ACOMI, Ionut VOICU, Liviu Constantin STAN

Abstract


The introduction of Onshore Power Supply (OPS) to ports is crucial to decrease greenhouse gas emissions from ships and push forward the transition to sustainable maritime transport. Despite the Fuel EU Maritime Regulation requires the use of OPS after January 1, 2025, several technological and infrastructural barriers currently prevent the broad implementation. This study employs a two-step mixed-methods approach, combining systematic literature review and qualitative data analysis to identify and analyse the key challenges associated with OPS application. PRISMA methodology was used to select relevant publications, which were then analysed using thematic coding in the Computer-Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis Software (CAQDAS) ATLAS.ti, enabling a structured synthesis of insights. The results highlight a number of critical obstacles, including technical compatibility limitations, grid capacity issues, and a lack of standardization and technical regulations, which are mostly caused by unclear implementation frameworks. These findings are presented through thematic maps and critically interpreted to offer actionable insights for policymakers, port authorities, and industry stakeholders, in order tp support the strategic planning of sustainable port electrification initiatives.

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References


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