Renewable energy generation and energy efficiency in seaports: a focus on the Malaysian maritime industry

Tóm tắt

The global maritime industry plays a crucial role in international trade and transportation, with seaports serving as vital hub. In recent years, there has been growing interest in transitioning seaports towards sustainable practices by integrating renewable energy sources for power generation and consumption. Additionally, the global community is witnessing a shift towards a fourth industrial revolution, which has sparked a new wave of energy generation and consumption transformation. Peak shaving can balance load demand and facilitate the participation of small power units in generation based on renewable energy sources.  In this regard, many approaches have been introduced, such as solar Power Photovoltaic (PV), wind energy, biofuel, biomass, and Battery Energy Storage (BES) which act as Energy Storage System (ESS). To assess the viability of renewable energy application in ports, various technological solutions and innovative practices will be analysed. Furthermore, this article presents a focused analysis of the Malaysian context, which encompasses a thriving maritime sector, to offer valuable perspectives on the utilisation of renewable energy solutions by seaports in this geographical area. This article seeks to make a scholarly contribution to the ongoing discussion on sustainable port operations within the broader context of the global shift towards renewable energy sources, by conducting a comprehensive examination of technological advancements and sustainable practices.