Υβριδικά συστήματα πρόωσης και παραγωγής ενέργειας για πλοία : επισκόπηση τεχνολογιών και σχετικές εφαρμογές
Hybrid propulsion and power generation systems for ships : review of technologies and relative applications

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Keywords
Υβριδικά συστήματα πρόωσης ; Ναυτιλία ; Ενεργειακή απόδοση ; IMO ; EEXI ; CII ; ΑπανθρακοποίησηAbstract
This thesis examines hybrid propulsion and energy systems in ships as one of the most realistic and promising technological solutions for improving energy efficiency and reducing atmospheric emissions in the maritime sector. Interest in these technologies has grown significantly due to stricter environmental requirements and the international regulatory framework established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), including measures and indices such as EEDI, EEXI, CII, and SEEMP. The study investigates the role of hybrid systems within the broader energy transition of shipping and analyzes their contribution to compliance with current decarbonization targets.
Methodologically, the study is based on secondary qualitative research and comparative technical assessment through a systematic review of the international literature, IMO regulatory documents, classification society technical requirements, and selected case studies. The technological solutions are evaluated according to four main criteria: technical maturity, environmental performance, economic viability, and regulatory compliance. In addition, the analysis is differentiated by ship type in order to highlight the varying operational requirements and the applicability of hybrid technologies across different vessel categories.
The findings indicate that hybrid systems can substantially contribute to fuel savings, lower emissions of CO₂, SOx, and NOx, and improve the overall operational efficiency of ships, particularly in vessel categories such as passenger ships, ferries, tugboats, and offshore support vessels. In contrast, their implementation in deep-sea shipping remains more challenging due to high energy demands and the limitations of current energy storage technologies. In conclusion, hybrid propulsion systems do not constitute a universal solution for all ship types; however, they represent a crucial transitional technology toward low- and zero-emission shipping, offering significant advantages in flexibility, energy management, and future adaptability.


