Sustainable, Flexible, and Future-Proof Electrical Propulsion for Greener Shipping
In 2017, Marpower (powered by Eekels Technology B.V.) began developing a groundbreaking propulsion system to tackle the challenges of sustainability in ship propulsion. The Modular Propulsion Platform (MPP) is a low-emission solution designed to align with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals while helping shipowners navigate the complexities of the energy transition.
A flexible, modular approach
The Marpower MPP is built on a flexible, modular design, enabling shipowners to adapt their vessels to new carbon-free technologies with minimal investment. The platform simplifies propulsion upgrades by eliminating the need for major structural changes. This opens the door to innovative hull designs, expanded cargo capacity, and streamlined engine rooms.
For naval architects, the MPP provides unmatched flexibility. Its compact structure and compatibility with both hybrid and fully electric propulsion systems allow efficient vessel designs while maintaining operational reliability.
Ready for green power
The MPP integrates seamlessly with various sustainable energy sources, such as:
- Battery systems
- Redox flow batteries
- Super caps
- Solar and wind assistance technologies
- Hydrogen or Methanol fuel cells
- Heat recovery systems
The platform’s high-speed Automation System manages the power dynamics of these sources efficiently, ensuring optimal performance regardless of the energy mix. As an independent system integrator, Eekels collaborates with shipbuilders, architects, and fuel innovators to meet the growing demand for carbon-neutral shipping.
Fuel efficiency
The fuel-saving capabilities of the system have proven their value in real-world operations with commercially operated short sea vessels, such as the Vertom Labrax 7000 series. Built by Thecla Bodewes Shipyards, these vessels utilize the MPP’s advanced diesel-electric propulsion system, which is designed to accommodate future upgrades. It features smart energy management systems that allow fuel-efficient slow steaming under various conditions.
Variable-speed generators operate in parallel, ensuring optimal performance across diverse weather and ballast conditions, which significantly reduces fuel consumption. Additionally, the MPP’s Drive Management System (DMS) enhances overall efficiency by optimizing thruster operations in heavy weather and seamlessly integrating with wind-assistance technologies.
Built for reliability and upgrades
The Marpower MPP incorporates modular, standardized power stacks, making maintenance and upgrades straightforward. Its redundant design ensures propulsion and power systems remain operational, even in case of failure. The split-bus layout guarantees continuous power to critical systems, offering flexibility for future battery expansions or additional energy storage solutions.
Integrated Automation for Seamless Control
The MPP features an integrated Automation Platform that combines alarm systems, energy management, propulsion control, and vessel performance monitoring. These systems operate independently per class requirements but are unified under a single interface, simplifying crew operations and reducing spare part inventory.
The Automation Platform is split into Energy Management System (EMS), which manages power distribution and prevents blackouts; Propulsion Control System (PCS), that provides sailing mode selection and drive control for optimal efficiency, and Vessel Performance System (VPS), which tracks performance indicators like fuel consumption, propeller thrust, and carbon emissions, delivering real-time insights for shore and onboard teams.
A sustainable future for shipping
The Marpower MPP represents a bold step toward zero-emission short sea shipping. Its modular, adaptable design equips shipowners with the tools they need to meet evolving regulations and embrace green technologies. By combining efficiency, reliability, and flexibility, Eekels Technology ensures the MPP is not just a propulsion system but a cornerstone of the future of sustainable shipping.
Contact us!
Mr. Maurits Feld
Mobile: +34 661 130 660
Camino de la Escollera 4, 1-D
07012 Palma de Mallorca, Spain
