The PRIMET project, which was led by MSE International, has concluded with the development of outline solutions for supplying energy to shore power/recharging facilities in three ports/harbours using in-port flow batteries to reduce peak grid loads and optimise the use of in-port renewable energy, thereby strenghening the case for investment.

The project looked at the roll-out of the port and harbour infrastructure needed to support the rapid expansion in vessel recharging and shore-powering facilities which are essential to realise the government's Clean Maritime Plan and new IMO committments. 

The project focussed on a highly innovative soluble lead flow battery technology, which is under early-stage development at the University of Southampton.

The conclusion, from the six month project, is that no single battery technology is universally superior; the choice depends on specific operational needs. Lithium-Ion batteries are best suited for applications where energy density and rapid response are crucial. Vanadium Flow Batteries are recommended for scenarios prioritising safety, modular scalability, and long service life. Soluble Lead Flow Batteries, with ongoing advancements, present an economical option for large-scale Long-Duration Energy Storage with fewer supply chain vulnerabilities. Future advancements in these technologies will further refine their applicability, contributing to the decarbonisation and resilience of port infrastructure.

A central feature is energy storage in the port or harbour operating under a multi-vector energy management system. Battery energy storage systems (BESS) have become a commercialy attractive solution for meeting high, intermittent loads that are encountered in port shore-power systems. MSE International is looking for further funding to show how these solutions could be deployed and operated on a commercial basis.

This project was funded by the UK government’s Transport Research and Innovation Grant (TRIG) and delivered by Connected Places Catapult. A total of 32 projects shared the £1.4 million investment to drive innovation and growth.

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