The University of Vigo showcased the MARPOWER project at the 14th National and 5th International Conference on Engineering Thermodynamics (14CNIT), held from June 4–6, 2025, in Zaragoza, Spain. Hosted by the University of Zaragoza, the conference brought together around 225 participants, mainly university faculty and researchers from across Spain and abroad. This academic setting provided an excellent platform for scientific exchange and collaboration on advancements in energy systems, renewable technologies, and thermal processes.
Principal Investigator Jacobo Porteiro and David Patiño, both full professors at the University of Vigo, represented their institution and the MARPOWER consortium with their poster titled “Efficient zero-emissions gas turbine POWER system for MARitime transport”. The poster served as a general introduction to the MARPOWER project and to the role of the University of Vigo in its development. It attracted significant interest among attendees due to its innovative approach to decarbonizing maritime transport.
As detailed in the poster presentation, the MARPOWER project aims to develop a next-generation, high-efficiency, zero-emissions energy conversion system specifically designed for maritime applications. The proposed solution centres around an intercooled recuperative two-shaft gas turbine system, integrated with a bottoming cycle. This system will not only be capable of reaching 50–55% electrical efficiency and up to 73–76% combined heat and power (CHP) efficiency, but will also be fuel-flexible, operating with net-zero fuels such as green methane, methanol, hydrogen, and ammonia, without requiring changes to the combustion chamber hardware.
The poster also highlighted several key contributions from the University of Vigo to the MARPOWER project, including:
- Digital Twin Development: creating a virtual replica of the gas turbine system for advanced simulation, optimization, and early validation.
- Prototype Testing: leading the evaluation of critical components such as the combustion chamber, heat recuperator, and high-pressure shaft under real-world conditions.
- Simulation Platform: contributing to the development of a mobile test platform that simulates shipboard motion to assess system performance in dynamic maritime environments.
These efforts highlight the University of Vigo’s leading role in technological innovation and system integration within the MARPOWER project. Their work ensures that the system will deliver not only technical performance but also environmental and economic viability, supporting the EU’s long-term goals for climate neutrality and green innovation in maritime transport.
By participating in the 14CNIT conference, the University of Vigo reinforced the project’s commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions and showcased the university’s expertise at a national and international level, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange across the engineering thermodynamics community.