Onboard DC Grid™

Onboard DC Grid™ is a modular power system platform that enables seamless, flexible integration of energy sources and loads. Highly customizable, it serves a wide range of vessel types, from the simple to the most demanding applications. Onboard DC Grid™ streamlines the creation of next-generation onboard power systems.

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Attractive CAPEX



All DC based sources are more functional and cheaper to integrate, lowering the total investment cost of the power train. Easy to adapt and add on new energy sources later on.  

Reliable system



Highly fault tolerant system platform, using high quality components and autonomous sub-system design philosophy, resulting in safer and more efficient operations.
 

Lower OPEX



Reduced operating expenditures through reduced fuel consumption, prolonged maintenance intervals and reduced emissions-related costs. In addition, high fault tolerance allows for more efficient operations.

The Onboard DC Grid™ technology

What is special about DC?

A DC-based power system enables simple, flexible, and functional integration of energy sources such as variable speed gensets and shaft generators, batteries, and fuel cells. Also, a DC and power-electronics based power system provides a unique platform for digital solutions onboard a vessel. Equipped with sensors and communication infrastructure, data is transmitted between systems in an instance. This gives access to information that enables the bridge to monitor and optimize their performance. And, better connectivity between ship and shore means that performance management is taken to the next level.

Where it all began

In March 2013, ABB delivered our first Onboard DC Grid™ system on the MPSV Dina Star, making Myklebusthaug Management the first in the world with an IMO vessel powered by a modern primary DC power system. The main focus at the time was variable speed generators, space savings and dynamic performance.  Ever since the first delivery we have seen a quick-paced evolution in the shipping industry, with DC playing an increasingly prominent role in the electrification of small- to mid-sized vessels.
Learn how Onboard DC Grid™ is supporting one of the world's most advanced cable laying vessels

DC for vessels with limited installation space

Have a look at Compact Onboard DC Grid™, the ideal power system platform for smaller vessels

Go!

Highlights

Press release

ABB and Seafjord Energy introduce pioneering e-bunker vessel concept

The innovative e-bunker vessel concept by SeaFjord Energy offers a new way of supplying energy to ships at sea and in ports
Press release

ABB’s integrated power and propulsion system for NKT sets new standards for cable layer performance

Integrated ABB Onboard DC Grid™ power distribution and Azipod® propulsion will optimize the performance of NKT’s new cable layer NKT Eleonora
Generations

ABB Spearheads Future-Proof Technologies for Icebreaking Ships

Operating safely and responsibly in the toughest ice conditions on the planet requires the toughest technology. Harsh environments, regulatory requirements, and lack of infrastructure are key challenges in building icebreaking vessels for operations in Polar waters – not only research vessels, but also expedition ships, cargo ships, tankers, and LNG carriers. System redundancy and equipment reliability are critical for the safety of both vessel and crew. Podded propulsion solutions have been developed to meet these stringent requirements offering effective, clean, and quiet operations together with superior maneuverability and reliability.

Press release

ABB modernizes MS Amera with DC technology and shore connection for improved safety and efficiency

MS Amera has become the first cruise ship retrofitted with ABB’s Onboard DC Grid™ power system platform.

Generations

'It feels like I'm contributing to a better future for the industry'

Mathilde Bergerskogen, Technical Sales Support Specialist at ABB Marine & Ports, set out to be an electrical engineer but had not envisioned working in the maritime sphere before her final graduate-training assignment. That changed everything and she is now busy speaking for ABB Onboard DC Grid™ amid an industry push towards decarbonization – which she sees as 'simply the right thing to do, not because the IMO demands it'.

Press release

First all-electric harbor tug in United States is powered by ABB propulsion

A new chapter in vessel electrification begins as all-electric, battery-powered eWolf was christened this week at the Port of San Diego

Press release

ABB introduces CO2e Calculator for enhanced transparency on emissions in vessel operations

The CO2e Calculator allows shipowners to estimate the reductions in carbon dioxide-equivalent emissions enabled by ABB solutions

Press release

ABB to power Samskip’s new hydrogen-fueled container vessels

ABB has secured a complete power, propulsion and automation systems order for Samskip Group’s hydrogen-powered container vessels

Press release

ABB to power two new multi-purpose patrol vessels for Finnish Border Guard

ABB will supply an integrated power and propulsion package comprising dual Azipod® propulsors and the Onboard DC Grid™ power system for two newbuild Finnish Border Guard patrol vessels

Generations: Business insight

ABB’s Onboard DC Grid™ continues to set the standard in vessel electrification – 10 years after first installation

With the groundbreaking first installation of Onboard DC Grid™ in 2013, ABB became the first company to deliver a direct current (DC)-based onboard power system to an oceangoing vessel.

Did you know

Onboard DC Grid™

Did you know direct current (DC) power is making it easier for ships to use clean energy and adapt to new energy sources in the future? Find out more

Press release

ABB wins Azipod® propulsion and integrated systems order for Van Oord offshore wind installation Jack Up Vessel (JUV)

Van Oord’s newbuild offshore wind installation vessel Boreas will benefit from space and weight savings enabled by ABB’s equipment allowing the vessel to transport heavier loads

Press release

Frøy selects ABB’s power system for new hybrid live-fish carrier

In a repeat order, Frøy selects ABB as a system integrator for the specially designed DC power distribution solution onboard its newbuild live-fish carrier

Generations: Technical insight

Modeling and HIL simulation of a fuel cell-fed hybrid power and propulsion system

Environmentally driven regulations have had a significant impact on shipping in recent years. This paper describes a DC-grid, fuel-cell powered hybrid shipboard power system using an average modeling method.

Press release

ABB to power world’s first hybrid-electric biomass fuel carriers

ABB’s power distribution technology selected by IHI Power Systems Co., Ltd. for hybrid-electric propulsion vessel called ROBOSHIP. ABB’s compact DC distribution solution allows vessel to draw on multiple energy sources, enhancing efficiency and future-proofing ships for emission-free operations.
Press release

ABB to enable smooth sailing for a 100-meter-plus superyacht

The new Abeking & Rasmussen built superyacht will benefit from ABB’s fully integrated power and propulsion system to optimize comfort while reducing emissions.
Web story

Onboard DC Grid™: flexible power distribution for modern vessel operations

As the energy sources available to the maritime industry evolve, so must the power platform enabling them. ABB’s Onboard DC Grid™ is a flexible power distribution system delivering efficiency gains to the ships of today and futureproofing them for the challenges of tomorrow.

Press release

ABB to become technology partner for world’s first methanol-hydrogen fuel cell towboat

ABB and industry partners to develop Hydrogen One, an ultra-low emission long-range towboat able to run for multiple days between fueling.
Press release

ABB to power first fully electric U.S. tugboat for maximum efficiency and zero-emission operations

ABB will deliver an integrated electric propulsion system and advanced vessel control technology for Crowley’s pioneering eWolf tug, built for sustainable and safe operations at the Port of San Diego.

CO2e calculator for Onboard DC Grid™

The proof is in the numbers

Calculate the estimated reduction of CO2e emissions as a result of applying the variable speed function on Onboard DC Grid™ for internal combustion engines, compared to a fixed speed function.

Fill in the main operational details of your vessel. The calculator will estimate how much CO2e emissions you can expect to reduce.
Onboard DC Grid™

Azipod® propulsion

This calculator showcases the estimated reduction of CO2e emissions as a result of powering a vessel with Azipod® propulsion compared to a similar vessel powered by shaft line propellers and is based on typical scenarios calculated for cruises, yachts, ferries, and offshore vessels. This calculator could also be applicable for other vessels with a similar operational profile.

Please enter numeric value only
20% 80%

Please enter annual operating hours. Please enter numeric value only Please enter fuel consumption. Please enter numeric value only

Please fill all the details correctly

Xestimated reduction in tons of CO2e emissions per year
X tons of CO2e emitted from system per year

pamp-calculator-connection-problem-has-occured No savings are expected due to an improbable scenario provided. Please modify the values above or contact an ABB expert for further support through the button to the right.
Image For Testing

Azipod® electric propulsion

Azipod® propulsion is a gearless steerable propulsion system where the electric drive motor is housed within a pod outside the ship hull.

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Please calculate the result first.

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Disclaimer:

The calculator only provides an estimate and is provided for illustrative purposes only. The calculator does not necessarily reflect all potential variables related to vessel specifications and operations which could impact the actual numbers in practice. Calculations are provided on an "as is" basis and ABB makes no representation, guarantee or warranty, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, correctness or completeness of the calculations and shall not be liable for any errors or omissions (including but not limited to errors or omissions made by third parties) in such information including but not limited to results displayed upon usage of the Vessel CO2e Calculator and any other information or content on this website.

The estimates provided are not legally binding and ABB is not liable for any losses or damages arising from any use of this calculator and/or reliance on the calculations provided, including but not limited to any direct, indirect, incidental, exemplary, punitive, special or consequential damages, howsoever arising.

Energy storage

This calculator showcases the estimated reduction of CO2e emissions as a result of a vessel fully powered with batteries, charged from the shore energy grid, compared to the same vessel powered by a typical combustion engine using VLSFO, MGO or LNG as fuel.

Please enter installed total propulsion power Please enter numeric value only
20% 80%

Please enter annual operating hours. Please enter numeric value only Please enter fuel consumption.. Please enter numeric value only

Please fill all the details correctly

X estimated reduction in tons of CO2e emissions per year
X tons of CO2e emitted from system per year

A connection problem has occurred. Please try again later No savings are expected due to an improbable scenario provided. Please modify the values above or contact an ABB expert for further support through the button to the right.
Image For Testing

Energy storage

ABB’s Energy storage system is a modular battery power supply developed for marine use.

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Please calculate the result first.

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Disclaimer:

The emission factors for the energy grid of each country, used in the calculations, are based on the 2022 values provided by International Energy Agency.

The calculator only provides an estimate and is provided for illustrative purposes only. The calculator does not necessarily reflect all potential variables related to vessel specifications and operations which could impact the actual numbers in practice. Calculations are provided on an "as is" basis and ABB makes no representation, guarantee or warranty, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, correctness or completeness of the calculations and shall not be liable for any errors or omissions (including but not limited to errors or omissions made by third parties) in such information including but not limited to results displayed upon usage of the Vessel CO2e Calculator and any other information or content on this website.

The estimates provided are not legally binding and ABB is not liable for any losses or damages arising from any use of this calculator and/or reliance on the calculations provided, including but not limited to any direct, indirect, incidental, exemplary, punitive, special or consequential damages, howsoever arising.

Onboard DC Grid™

This calculator showcases the estimated reduction of CO2e emissions as a result of applying the variable speed function on Onboard DC Grid™ for internal combustion engines, compared to a fixed speed function.

Please enter total installed power of vessel Please enter numeric value only
20% 80%

Please enter numeric value only Please enter fuel consumption.. Please enter numeric value only

Please fill all the details correctly

X estimated reduction in tons of CO2e emissions per year
X tons of CO2e emitted from system per year

A connection problem has occurred. Please try again later No savings are expected due to an improbable scenario provided. Please modify the values above or contact an ABB expert for further support through the button to the right.
Image For Testing

Onboard DC Grid™

Onboard DC Grid™ is a modular power system platform that enables simple, flexible and functional integration of energy sources and loads.

Do you have questions or would you like to discuss the results with us?

Please calculate the result first.

Would you like a copy of the results sent to your email?

Disclaimer:

The calculator only provides an estimate and is provided for illustrative purposes only. The calculator does not necessarily reflect all potential variables related to vessel specifications and operations which could impact the actual numbers in practice. Calculations are provided on an "as is" basis and ABB makes no representation, guarantee or warranty, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, correctness or completeness of the calculations and shall not be liable for any errors or omissions (including but not limited to errors or omissions made by third parties) in such information including but not limited to results displayed upon usage of the Vessel CO2e Calculator and any other information or content on this website.

The estimates provided are not legally binding and ABB is not liable for any losses or damages arising from any use of this calculator and/or reliance on the calculations provided, including but not limited to any direct, indirect, incidental, exemplary, punitive, special or consequential damages, howsoever arising.

Shaft generator

This calculator showcases the estimated reduction in CO2e emissions as a result of installing a shaft generator on the main engine shaft compared to auxiliary generators driven by the auxiliary engines.

Please enter installed shaft generator power Please enter numeric value only
20% 80%

Please enter annual operating hours. Please enter numeric value only

Auxiliary Engine

Please enter fuel consumption.. Please enter numeric value only

Main Engine

Please enter avg. vessel operation power of main engine Please enter numeric value only Please enter fuel consumption improvement of main engine Please enter numeric value only Please enter fuel consumption.. Please enter numeric value only

Please fill all the details correctly

X estimated reduction in tons of CO2e emissions per year
X tons of CO2e emitted from system per year

A connection problem has occurred. Please try again later. No savings are expected due to an improbable scenario provided. Please modify the values above or contact an ABB expert for further support through the button to the right.
Image For Testing

Variable speed shaft generator (PTO/PTI)

Using energy efficient main engine to generate electrical power (PTO), the system can boost the main propulsion shaft (PTI), and also provide Power take home (PTH) for an extra layer of redundancy.

Do you have questions or would you like to discuss the results with us?

Please calculate the result first.

Would you like a copy of the results sent to your email?

Disclaimer:

The calculator only provides an estimate and is provided for illustrative purposes only. The calculator does not necessarily reflect all potential variables related to vessel specifications and operations which could impact the actual numbers in practice. Calculations are provided on an "as is" basis and ABB makes no representation, guarantee or warranty, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, correctness or completeness of the calculations and shall not be liable for any errors or omissions (including but not limited to errors or omissions made by third parties) in such information including but not limited to results displayed upon usage of the Vessel CO2e Calculator and any other information or content on this website.

The estimates provided are not legally binding and ABB is not liable for any losses or damages arising from any use of this calculator and/or reliance on the calculations provided, including but not limited to any direct, indirect, incidental, exemplary, punitive, special or consequential damages, howsoever arising.

Shore connection

This calculator showcases the estimated reduction of CO2e emissions as a result of supplying electric power from a shore connection, which pulls power from the utility grid, compared to generating electric power from the generators onboard.

Please enter total installed shore connection power Please enter numeric value only
20% 80%

Please enter annual power transferred from shore Please enter numeric value only Please enter fuel consumption.. Please enter numeric value only

Please fill all the details correctly

X estimated reduction in tons of CO2e emissions per year
X tons of CO2e emitted from system per year

A connection problem has occurred. Please try again later. No savings are expected due to an improbable scenario provided. Please modify the values above or contact an ABB expert for further support through the button to the right.
Image For Testing

Shore connection

ABB delivers shore connection and charging solutions for different vessel types enabling fully electric operations.

Do you have questions or would you like to discuss the results with us?

Please calculate the result first.

Would you like a copy of the results sent to your email?

Disclaimer:

The emission factors for the energy grid of each country, used in the calculations, are based on the 2022 values provided by International Energy Agency.

The calculator only provides an estimate and is provided for illustrative purposes only. The calculator does not necessarily reflect all potential variables related to vessel specifications and operations which could impact the actual numbers in practice. Calculations are provided on an "as is" basis and ABB makes no representation, guarantee or warranty, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, correctness or completeness of the calculations and shall not be liable for any errors or omissions (including but not limited to errors or omissions made by third parties) in such information including but not limited to results displayed upon usage of the Vessel CO2e Calculator and any other information or content on this website.

The estimates provided are not legally binding and ABB is not liable for any losses or damages arising from any use of this calculator and/or reliance on the calculations provided, including but not limited to any direct, indirect, incidental, exemplary, punitive, special or consequential damages, howsoever arising.

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Key references

WEBSTORY
ABB technology helps advanced cable-laying vessel achieve up to 60 percent in fuel savings


With ABB’s power, control, distribution and automation solutions, specialized cable layer NKT Victoria achieves up to 60 percent fuel saving when compared with cable-layers in its class operating in the market.

Read more
REFERENCE CASE
ABB powers futuristic hybrid ferry on Norwegian fjords


ABB is providing integral technology to one of the most innovative ship designs ever seen on the Norwegian fjords. The ferry will couple its striking appearance with ABB’s cutting edge maritime hybrid solution.

Read more

Related solutions

Energy storage
Fuel cell
Shore connection
Variable speed shaft generator (PTO/PTI)
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