SPARK

SPARK project will demonstrate a novel offshore deployment of an Onshore Power Supply (OPS) system, located 1–2 km from the quayside of the Port of Skagen. By extending OPS beyond fixed terminal installations, the project enables substantial reductions in greenhouse gas and pollutant emissions from auxiliary engines, directly contributing to HORIZON-CL5-2025-D5-14 expected outcomes as well as FuelEU Maritime and AFIR targets for 2030 and 2050. The solution integrates five key innovations: (i) a dynamic offshore cable and management system tailored to OPS voltage/current profiles with real-time monitoring; (ii) an offshore vessel-side connector fully compatible with IEC/ISO/IEEE 80005 standards and existing onboard shore power systems, avoiding vessel retrofitting; (iii) a semi-automated coupling mechanism with embedded safety features; (iv) an advanced monitoring and control platformfor predictive fault detection and blackout prevention; and (v) VR-based training modules aligned with EU standardisation for safe, repeatable, and scalable crew training. SPARK will showcase a scalable, reliable, and cost-effective offshore OPS solution. At TRL 8, the system is fully integrated, having undergone comprehensive qualification testing and formal certification by DNV. The project also provides technical recommendations aligned with IEC 80005 standards. The project brings together universities and research institutes delivering advanced R&I, testing, and validation; port authorities and regulatory bodies providing operational sites and real-world deployment expertise; ship operators contributing practical requirements and feedback; and industrial technology partners developing, integrating, and certifying proposed solutions. This ensures SPARK’s offshore OPS solutions are scientifically robust, operationally feasible, and ready for replication across European anchorage areas.