Comparison between high-efficiency propulsion systems in electric ship applications

In this paper, a fully electric marine propulsion system is compared with a hybrid (mechanical-electric) one, concerning a Ro-Ro ferry application. Both solutions employ variable speed electric generators, fueled by natural gas. In additions, waste heat recovery from the exhaust gas of the thermal engine and an innovative hybrid turbocharger are tested, individually or together, to further increase the overall efficiency of both systems. A technical, economical and eco-friendly (in terms of CO2 emitted) comparison between the two systems is reported, considering several ship speeds and routes