In the ever-evolving world of maritime power systems, stability is paramount. Imagine a ship’s engine suddenly fluctuating due to variable wind or solar power inputs. That’s a real challenge with renewable energy sources, and it’s one that researchers like Khaled Aleikish from the University of South-Eastern Norway are tackling head-on. Aleikish, affiliated with the Department of Electrical Engineering, IT and Cybernetics, has co-authored a groundbreaking study published in the IEEE Open Access Journal of Power and Energy, introducing a novel approach to power system stabilization.
So, what’s the big deal? Well, traditional power system stabilizers (PSS) are like old-school captains—great in calm waters but struggle when the seas get rough. These systems are designed for specific conditions and can’t adapt to the rapid fluctuations caused by renewable energy sources. That’s where Aleikish’s Synergistic Meta-Heuristic Adaptive Real-Time Power System Stabilizer, or SMART-PSS, comes in. This isn’t your grandfather’s stabilizer; it’s a smart, adaptive system that can handle a broad range of operating conditions.
The SMART-PSS uses a two-stage process. First, it employs a modified Heffron-Phillips model and meta-heuristics to synthesize the PSS’s compensating transfer function. In plain terms, it figures out the best way to stabilize the power system across various conditions without relying on external system parameters. Then, it uses machine learning techniques to extrapolate these tuning results, ensuring adaptability across the full range of operating conditions. As Aleikish puts it, “The effectiveness of this design methodology is rigorously evaluated in multi-machine power systems. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed SMART-PSS exhibits robust performance compared to conventional fixed-parameter controllers, reducing the maximum phase deviation by 70% to 96%.”
For the maritime sector, this could be a game-changer. Ships and offshore platforms increasingly rely on renewable energy sources, and stabilizing these power systems is crucial for safety and efficiency. The SMART-PSS could mean smoother operations, reduced downtime, and lower maintenance costs. Imagine a ship’s engine running flawlessly despite variable wind or solar inputs—that’s the promise of this technology.
The commercial impacts are significant. Companies investing in SMART-PSS could see reduced operational costs and improved reliability. This could make maritime operations more sustainable and cost-effective, opening up new opportunities for green shipping and offshore renewable energy projects. The technology could also enhance the integration of renewable energy sources in maritime applications, paving the way for a more sustainable future.
Aleikish’s work, published in the IEEE Open Access Journal of Power and Energy, opens up exciting possibilities for the maritime industry. As the world moves towards cleaner, more efficient power systems, adaptive technologies like SMART-PSS will be at the forefront of this transition. So, keep an eye on this space—the future of maritime power systems is looking smarter and more stable than ever.