What is the primary source of electricity on board?

The primary source of electricity on board ships is typically AC Power. Alternating Current (AC) is commonly used for power distribution systems because of its efficiency in transmission over long distances, which is crucial for a ship’s operational needs. AC Power systems allow for the use of transformers to step up voltage levels for transmission, reducing energy losses. Additionally, most onboard equipment, including motors and generators, operates efficiently on AC Power, making it the preferred choice for the marine environment.

While DC Power is also present and used for specific applications, such as battery systems and some electronic equipment, it is not the main source of power on a ship. Hybrid Power introduces a combination of different energy sources, but this is more specific to certain vessel types and is not universally adopted as the primary system. Solar Power is an emerging energy source that may supplement power needs but is not generally relied upon as the primary source due to limitations in energy production capacity when compared to traditional systems. Thus, AC Power remains the standard for its adaptability and efficiency in the maritime industry.