The global transition to sustainable energy highlights the importance of efficient use of resources and innovative energy solutions. In particular, ports that rely on commercial electricity and fossil fuels are a major contributor to CO2 emissions and operating costs. Meanwhile, high-temperature superconductors (HTS) in rotating machinery are one of the key components to enhance hydropower generation systems, including power generation and ship propulsion motors with hydrogen cooling system[1]. Previous studies have investigated the integration of HTS generators with hydrogen systems to obtain significant benefits in line with the carbon neutral port (CNP) concept. As a result, CO2 emissions could be significantly reduced by utilizing both electricity and hydrogen [2]. This study examines the feasibility and potential effectiveness of deploying rotating machines equipped with HTS generators to meet the long-term energy demands of port environments. An optimized system configuration is proposed, based on MATLAB-based simulations. The optimization process is guided by three evaluation criteria: Efficiency of Power Utilization (EPU), which aims to minimize surplus power; Effective CO2 Reduction (ECR), which focuses on reducing external power dependency; and Rate of Stored Hydrogen (RSH), which assesses the adequacy of hydrogen storage in meeting operational requirements. These criteria are quantified, and the comprehensive evaluation value is calculated as the sum of these metrics. **To achieve an optimal configuration, this study uses the Simulink Design Optimization Toolbox's Response Optimizer to fine-tune generator specifications and hydrogen tank capacity. By iteratively adjusting these parameters within the simulation framework, the optimization process aims to improve the evaluation metrics. The results suggest that the proposed system configuration appropriately sizes the HTS generators and optimizes hydrogen tank capacity to meet the energy demands of specific port operations. Additionally, the study notes the operational advantages of using surplus electricity for hydrogen production, which may contribute to a more sustainable and efficient energy solution for port environments. The findings indicate that HTS and hydrogen integration could support efforts to develop more sustainable port infrastructures.
[1] S. Hara et al., "Development of Liquid Hydrogen Cooling System for a Rotor of Superconducting Generator," in IEEE Transactions on Applied Superconductivity, vol. 31, no. 5, pp. 1-5, Aug. 2021, Art no. 5202505, doi: 10.1109/TASC.2021.3065814.
[2]K. Tsuzuki et al., "Study of Superconducting System Under Hydrogen Demand for Carbon Neutral Port," in IEEE Transactions on Applied Superconductivity, vol. 34, no. 3, pp. 1-4, May 2024, Art no. 3601804, doi: 10.1109/TASC.2024.3360940.
This work was supported by JKA and its promotion funds from KEIRIN RACE