Blue Drive - Hybrid Power Split Marine Propulsion

Project facts

Project promoter:
Novamina Ltd.(HR)
Project Number:
HR-INNOVATION-0006
Status:
Completed
Final project cost:
€1,056,645
Other Project Partners
ISKRA 1 Shipyard(HR)

Description

NOVAMINA is a small sized company founded in 2009. Its main activities include development of innovative, advanced and environmentally friendly technologies, followed by effective and sustainable implementation and creation of market ready products. NOVAMINA’s product development and R&D-based work has been carried out for the needs of over 200 industrial partners across the EU.

This project tackles development of a BlueDrive, hybrid marine propulsion technology, a variable speed power split propulsion system that combines the best features of mechanical and electrical drives, primarily through the possibility of separate and simultaneous use of mechanical and electrical power by variable kinematics conditions of the drives.

BlueDrive propulsion offers numbers of advantages, as  compared to conventional and diesel electric propulsion, namely:

- Lower total volume of harmful emissions including CO2

- Less fuel consumption (up to 25%)

- Lower initial investment (up to 20%) and operating costs

- Increased Safety at sea and navigational comfort

BlueDrive exhibits a significant improvement of power management, thrust availability and propulsive efficiency compared to conventional and diesel electric arrangements.

Summary of project results

The project addressed the development of the BlueDrive hybrid marine propulsion system, aimed at improving power management, thrust availability, and propulsive efficiency compared to conventional systems. It tackled challenges like reducing emissions, lowering fuel consumption and costs, and enhancing safety and comfort at sea.

The project developed the BlueDrive hybrid marine propulsion system, creating a variable speed power split propulsion that combines mechanical and electrical drives. Key activities included designing a full-scale prototype with motor/generators, power converters, and drive controls, as well as developing and demonstrating an advanced power management and control system for improved efficiency and performance.

The project successfully developed and demonstrated the BlueDrive hybrid propulsion system, achieving significant reductions in fuel consumption (up to 25%), lower emissions, and reduced operational and investment costs (up to 20%). These outcomes benefited shipowners, operators, and the broader marine industry by providing a more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly propulsion solution that enhances safety and extends equipment life, supporting the global shift towards more sustainable maritime operations.

Information on the projects funded by the EEA and Norway Grants is provided by the Programme and Fund Operators in the Beneficiary States, who are responsible for the completeness and accuracy of this information.