Electrical and Computers Engineering
Work description
The energy transition of the maritime sector requires addressing both offshore renewable generation and the decarbonization of port operations. Ports are expected to become key nodes of the future energy system, acting simultaneously as logistics hubs and as energy hubs capable of integrating large amounts of offshore renewable energy sources (RES) while enabling the electrification of port infrastructure and maritime transport. In this context, Onshore Power Supply (OPS), also referred to as shore-side electricity or cold ironing, has emerged as a critical enabling technology to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants in port areas. OPS allows vessels at berth to switch off auxiliary engines and connect to the onshore electrical network, thereby reducing local emissions and improving air quality in coastal urban environments. The relevance of OPS is reinforced by the European regulatory framework, which mandates the deployment of OPS infrastructure in major European ports by 2030, creating an urgent need for advanced technical planning and operational tools. However, large-scale OPS deployment introduces major technical challenges. Ports are typically not designed to accommodate the high and uncertain electrical loads associated with ship electrification, especially when multiple vessels connect simultaneously. OPS demand depends on vessel type, onboard auxiliary systems, operational conditions, weather, berth duration, and port-specific logistics patterns. Additionally, the integration of OPS loads with offshore renewable generation, local photovoltaic systems, and energy storage systems requires advanced modelling, forecasting, and energy management strategies to ensure grid reliability and cost-effective operation. This research topic addresses these challenges by developing integrated modelling and energy management tools for OPS systems. The work will support the development of new decision-support capabilities for green ports, enabling the assessment of OPS infrastructure requirements, the quantification of flexibility potential, and the optimal coordination of OPS demand with renewable energy supply and storage resources. The developed models will contribute to INESC TEC ambitions by linking offshore renewable integration with port-level energy planning and by providing methodologies and tools that support the transition to low-emission maritime logistics ecosystems.
Academic Qualifications
Electrical and Computers Engineering or any other related field
Minimum profile required
- Not having benefited from a PhD grant awarded by any organisation directly funded by FCT, regardless of its duration.- In case the work plan of the requested grant takes place totally or partially in foreign institutions (mixed grants or abroad), the candidate must have residence in Portugal, a requirement applicable to both national and foreign citizens.- Not holding a PhD degree.- To be a student enrolled in a doctoral program in the field of Sustainable Energy Systems
Preference factors
- Strong knowledge of Electrical Power Systems, particularly in grid integration, medium/high-voltage systems, and distributed energy resources. - Experience in energy system modelling and optimization, including mathematical programming (e.g., MILP), stochastic modelling, or flexibility assessment. - Experience in Python programming for data analysis, simulation, and optimization (e.g., Pandas, NumPy, Pyomo, forecasting libraries). - Knowledge or research experience related to Onshore Power Supply (OPS), port electrification, or renewable energy integration in maritime environments. - Experience in the design or implementation of Energy Management Systems (EMS) or smart grid coordination strategies involving renewable energy and storage systems.
Application Period
Since 01 May 2026 to 15 May 2026
Centre
Power and Energy Systems