Fast and safe charging for electric vessels
Since 2014, Cavotec has pioneered the development of plug-in solutions for electric vessels. From early manual systems to today’s fully automated connections, our technologies have already enabled the electric operation of nearly 50 vessels across various applications.
As battery technologies evolve and more vessel types transition to electric propulsion, Cavotec continues to lead the way – delivering innovative, reliable, and future-ready charging systems that power the next generation of sustainable maritime transport.
Why Cavotec?
Solutions to suit your needs
Every vessel and terminal is unique. Cavotec’s portfolio offers a range of solutions designed to meet your specific requirements.
Robust & reliable design
Our systems are engineered to withstand harsh maritime environments and deliver reliable performance throughout the equipment’s lifetime.
Serviceable
With a service footprint across four continents, Cavotec ensures that qualified service personnel are always within reach and available quickly.
Megawatt Charging System (MCS)
The Megawatt Charging System (MCS) is a new industry-driven standard launched and supported by CharIN, an association of over 300 stakeholders worldwide. Its goal is to enable high-power DC charging for industrial vehicles, including electric vessels.
Cavotec has pioneered the first Level 3 MCS Plug-in System, capable of delivering up to 4.5 MW through a single connector.
The Cavotec MCS product range includes three key systems:
- Plugs/Inlets: MCS Level 3 plugs and inlets
- MCS Dispenser: A manual cable management system for MCS Level 3
- MCS Charger: A modular charging system specifically designed for MCS applications
Automated Plug-In Systems for Demanding Operations
Automated plug-in systems become essential when vessel call frequency is high, turnaround times are short, or when large amounts of power—typically above 1MW—need to be transferred quickly and reliably. These demanding conditions require robust, efficient, and safe connection solutions that manual systems simply can’t match.
To meet these challenges, often occurring in combination, Cavotec has developed a versatile portfolio of three Automated Plug-In Systems tailored to different vessel types, berth configurations, and tidal conditions:
- PowerRamp: typically installed on the vessel’s ramp, ideal for bow connections.
- PowerAdapt: a flexible solution for bow or side connections.
- PowerDrop: designed for vessels docking alongside quays with significant tidal variations
Manual Plug-In Systems for Simple, Flexible Operations
As the first solutions developed for electric vessel charging, manual plug-in systems remain highly relevant—especially for vessels with lower power needs or requiring greater operational flexibility, such as tugboats or small passenger ferries.
Cavotec offers manual systems based on two proven architectures derived from shore power applications:
- PowerRun offers maximum flexibility for different vessel types and connection points.
- PowerReach enables faster connections —often completed in just a few minutes—making it ideal for operations where speed and ease of use are critical.