RoPax terminal

Shore power supply for RoPax terminals

On this page you will find detailed information on:

Shore power requirements in accordance with IEC 80005-1 standards

The IEEE/IEC/ISO 80005-1 standards for high voltage shore connections contain comprehensive information on the design, installation and testing of HVSC (High Voltage Shore Connection) systems. They provide general guidelines for HVSC systems as well as specific appendices for certain ship types. Appendix D is particularly relevant for container ships. This section contains specifications that ensure the global interoperability and safety of the systems through defined test parameters.

Some of the most important design features for RoPax terminals and ships are

HVSC electrical design: 6.6/11kV with sufficient short circuit rating and protection coordination for simultaneous hotel and vehicle deck loads; HV transformer.
Frequency conversion (if required): compact, quiet 50/60Hz conversion with synchronisation, phase sequence and voltage monitoring.
Passenger safety: strictly separated HV zone with barriers and signage; no interference with escape and evacuation routes.
Cable management for gangways/tidal lift: collision-free, trip-free guide with limited tensile/bending forces and secure support.
Interlocks and operating sequences: standardised sequences, enabling signals, interlocked energising/disconnecting; real-time communication for short idle times.

Best practices for successful planning, designing and implementation

Planning should be geared towards achieving 100% connectivity under today's conditions while ensuring the flexibility to adapt to future requirements at any time.

System planning must take into account not only current needs, but also potential future requirements and emergency situations that may arise due to the failure of other devices at the terminal. The best system is one that fulfils current requirements, takes future developments into account and can react to unplanned events - without additional planning effort.

The international standard IEC 80005-1 should be carefully considered to ensure interoperability with other systems and safety when dealing with high voltage technology.

Interoperability: As the terminal receives ships from all over the world, it is crucial to ensure that these ships can be easily connected when they arrive.
Safety: With high voltage shore power systems, it is essential to design a system that takes into account occupational safety from both an electrical and ergonomic perspective.

Core business operations should be carefully analysed to ensure that the shore power system is seamlessly integrated into the existing operational structure - with fast, easy and safe operation.

System planning must ensure that the shore power system works harmoniously with existing operations. The connection process should not affect the efficiency of operations. A system that requires a lot of labour or is complicated to operate and maintain can have a negative impact on profitability.

Our solutions

igus® Mobile Shore Power Outlet

The iMSPO for RoPax vessels enables flexible positioning of power connections along the entire berth - exactly where they are needed. The system is fully compliant with IEC standards and can be used with any type of cable management system.