We managed to list the main advantage of the electrical propulsion system.

They are as
follows:

 The system generates a significant amount of power is generated by the system

and the excess power utilized by supplying it to cargo pumps, fire pumps and
other important auxiliary machinery
 The space required for installation of electrical propulsion machinery is very less
and compact as compared to conventional system.
 There is no direct connection of propeller shaft and prime mover, and hence
transmission of severe stresses such as torsional and vibration is restricted.
 There is more flexibility in installation of machinery.
 It provides improved maneuverability and high redundancy
 Increased payload through flexible location of machinery components
 Environmental benefits from lower fuel consumption and emissions
 High performance in harsh ice conditions due to maximum torque at zero speed
 Reduces life cycle cost by less fuel consumption and maintenance cost
 Minimal standstill time for maintenance and service.
 Vessels with potential trim problems, such as stern wheelers, where machinery
needs to be located forward to avoid trim problems.
 Better comfort due to reduced vibration and noise
 Much better dynamic response from zero to maximum propelling speed
compared to other propulsion systems
 Less reversing time compared to other propulsion systems
 Availability of maximum torque across the entire speed range at the propeller.
 Reduced space requirements in the shaft system.
 Design and engineering of the propeller are independent of the drive.
 Flexibility in the choice of diesel engine speed.

Yes, there are disadvantages of this system as well. They are:

 The efficiency of the electrical plant is less than that of a conventional system.
 The installation cost of electrical propulsion plant is much higher.
 Different and improved training for ship’s crew as the system is completely
different from mechanical system and involves major automation.

Putting advantages and disadvantages side by side, we can confidently say that the
former easily surpasses the later ones. From a long term perspective, we feel
that electric propulsion will not be a bad bet, keeping in mind the amount of initial
investment that needs to be made, and which we think will definitely pay-off at a later
stage.

Conclusion: Electrical propulsion system has already been established in the maritime
industry for certain ship types (Cruise, DP etc.) and with several stringent environmental
norms and regulations being included in the industry (MARPOL Annex VI, Nox, ECA’s
etc. ), it certainly has a very bright future going forward.