Hydrogen-based shipboard power systems are gaining prominence as a zero-emission alternative to conventional diesel-fueled systems for reducing the carbon footprint in the maritime sector. However, the efficient coordination of power generation and storage systems with different characteristics remains a challenge. This paper presents a modular approach to the hierarchical control with multiple power generation and energy storage systems. Dynamic power sharing is achieved using a decentralized strategy that employs bandwidth separation, accounting for the opposing capabilities of each device. Additionally, an energy management strategy based on equivalent consumption minimization is realized in this modular framework using a low-bandwidth communication network. The proposed architecture’s modular character allows for a flexible power system reconfiguration and extension. Results demonstrate that the bandwidth separation ensures the operation of the different technologies within their specified bandwidths, limiting the potential degradation of the fuel cell systems. The addition of the modular energy management strategy shows a fuel-efficient operation of the fuel cell-battery DC power system and a decrease in the fuel cells’ power gradients, and thereby their aging effect.
Hierarchical control strategy for Fuel Cell-battery shipboard power system utilizing a modular control architecture
