Smart, Connected, and Sustainable: The Transformation of Maritime Ports Through Electrification, IoT, 5G, and Green Energy

Mohamad Issa (), Patrick Rizk, Loïc Boulon, Miloud Rezkallah, Rodrigue Rizk and Adrian Ilinca
Additional contact information
Mohamad Issa: Department of Applied Sciences, Quebec Maritime Institute, Rimouski 53 Rue St Germain O, Rimouski, QC G5L 4B4, Canada
Patrick Rizk: Arctus, Campus d’innovation St-Laurent, 352, Alcide C.-Horth Street, Rimouski, QC G5M 0W6, Canada
Loïc Boulon: Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351 Boulevard des Forges, Trois-Rivières, QC G8Z 4M3, Canada
Miloud Rezkallah: Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Université du Québec en Outaouais, 101, rue Saint-Jean-Bosco, Gatineau, QC J8X 3X7, Canada
Rodrigue Rizk: Department of Computer Science, University of South Dakota, 414 E. Clark Street, Vermillion, SD 57069, USA
Adrian Ilinca: T3E Industrial Research Group, Mechanical Engineering Department, École de Technologie Supérieure, 1100 Notre-Dame St W, Montréal, QC H3C 1K3, Canada

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 17, 1-43

Abstract: In recent years, there has been a fast expansion in the usage of renewable energy sources (RESs) in power distribution systems. Numerous advantages result from this advancement, such as environmental friendliness, cost-effective power generation, easier maintenance, and energy sustainability and reliability. Reducing reliance on fossil fuels, which are of significant environmental concern, and increasing energy efficiency are two benefits of integrating RESs into maritime systems, such as port microgrids. As a result, ports are implementing several programs to increase energy efficiency using various RESs that are supported by power electronic converters. To highlight the most recent developments in seaport electrification and infrastructure, this work conducts a systematic review. It addresses important issues like energy efficiency enhancements, environmental concerns, the integration of renewable energy sources, the Internet of Things (IoT), and regulatory and legal compliance. The study also discusses technology strategies like digitization, electrification, onshore power supply systems, and port energy storage options. Operational tactics, including peak-shaving methods and energy-efficient operations, are also covered. Additionally, an infrastructure framework—which includes port microgrids and smart seaport microgrids—that is intended to enhance energy efficiency in contemporary ports is examined.

Keywords: smart/green ports; smart energy management; microgrids; digitalization; Internet of Things; energy efficiency; peak-shaving; 4G/5G (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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