Optimizing Smart Energy Infrastructure in Smart Ports: A Systematic Scoping Review of Carbon Footprint Reduction

Abstract

To lessen the environmental impact of the maritime industry, ports must decarbonize in conformity with various standards such as the European Green Deal and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In this regard, they must demonstrate integrated low-emission energy production, distribution, and supply, as well as sustainable alternative infrastructure for refueling ships, cargo handling equipment, and other vehicles inside port boundaries. To address this issue, ports must progress toward smartening their operations. This requires intelligent infrastructure and components, with smart energy infrastructure being one of the most crucial ones. It is a part of port energy management systems (EMSs) and works based on modern technology to balance energy demand, distributions, and supply while transitioning to renewable energies. This study investigates the “scoping review” of “smart energy infrastructure” deployment and its efficiency in seaport EMSs to reduce the port’s carbon footprint (C.F). The “Introduction” section discusses the subject’s significance. The “Materials and Methods” section explains the process of selecting and revising references and relevant material. The “Findings” section then examines the several aspects and sections of a smart port and smart energy infrastructure, as well as how they function. The “Discussion” section explains the interpretation based on the present situation. Finally, the “Conclusion” part gives scientific thoughts and comments on the work-study debate and ideas for future research in the same field to help port authorities achieve sustainability.