With stricter IMO regulations on CO₂ taking effect in 2023 and ambitious goals to reduce carbon intensity by 2030, the maritime industry is scrambling to clean up its act. Conventional methods and equipment are now being reevaluated, upgraded or completely replaced. The difference between a short-term fix and a long-term sustainable option is how flexible vessels will be to use new energy sources or technology as they become viable. The review discusses the recent literature on renewable energy sources, technical and operational strategies for new and existing ships, technology maturity, and alternative fuels. It is found that the IMO’s targets can be met by combining two or three technologies, or via a radical technology shift which can provide innovative, high-efficiency solutions from an environmental and economic standpoint. It has also been noted that policies and enforcement are essential management instruments for mitigating the unfavourable environmental effects of marine transportation and directing the maritime industry toward sustainability on a regional, national, and international scale.

Technological innovation constantly transforms and redefines the human element’s position inside complex socio-technical systems. Autonomous operations are in various phases of development and practical deployment across several transport domains, with marine operations still in their infancy. This article discusses current trends in developing autonomous vessels and some of the most recent initiatives worldwide. It also investigates the individual and combined effects of maritime autonomous surface ships (MASS) on regulations, technology, and sectors in reaction to the new marine paradigm change. Other essential topics, such as safety, security, jobs, training, and legal and ethical difficulties, are also considered to develop a solution for efficient, dependable, safe, and sustainable shipping in the near future. Finally, it is advised that holistic approaches to building the technology and regulatory framework be used and that communication and cooperation among various stakeholders based on mutual understanding are essential for the MASS to arrive in the maritime industry successfully.

Mining in Canada stands as one of the most energy-intensive sectors, playing a pivotal role as a significant provider of copper, nickel, and cobalt to the international market. Anticipated growth in the global population, coupled with the transition of several low-income economies to middle-income status, is poised to escalate the demand for essential raw materials. This surge in demand is expected to drive an increase in energy consumption across various stages of the Canadian mining industry, encompassing exploration, extraction, processing, and refining. Due to their geographical constraints, most Canadian mining operations rely heavily on fossil fuels such as diesel and heavy fuel. Considering the global shift towards decarbonization and the pursuit of net-zero emission targets, exploring avenues for adopting electrification solutions and integrating renewable energy technologies, particularly in sizable surface mines, is imperative. Within this context, our study delves into the challenges and prospects associated with infusing renewable energy technologies and embracing electrification alternatives within Canadian mining practices. This exploration encompasses a comprehensive review of pertinent literature comprising academic research, technical analyses, and data disseminated by international entities and experts. The findings underscore a prevalent trend wherein Canadian mining enterprises are prominently investing in robust electric truck fleets, particularly for heavy-duty operations. Additionally, incorporating renewable energy solutions is notably prevalent in remote sites with extended operational lifespans. However, an in-depth examination reveals that the most formidable hurdles encompass successfully integrating renewable energy sources and battery electric vehicles. Financial constraints, logistical intricacies, and the imperative to enhance research and development competencies emerge as pivotal challenges that demand strategic addressing.

In the context of electricity production in remote areas, the use of diesel generators, either alone or in hybridization with renewable energy sources, faces many technical problems. Indeed, the electrical instability that often characterizes the isolated networks, due to the fluctuating character of renewable resources and the high variability in the load profile, leads to the operation of the diesel generator in transient dynamic conditions, at low loads or outside prescribed environmental conditions. Furthermore, the extended operation of the diesel generator at low charge results in the condensation of combustion residues on the engine cylinder walls, which, after a certain time, increases friction, reduces the efficiency and increases fuel consumption. One way to solve this problem and to eliminate these deposits is to operate the engine at a higher speed until the operating temperature is reached. This paper explores the impact of the wind turbine penetration rate for hybrid wind–diesel systems and the effects of cold temperatures, high altitude, and other environmental operation conditions on diesel generators’ performances. We outlines the impacts of low load and environmental conditions such as ambient temperature, humidity, moisture, abrasive dust, cold and corrosive environments on the operation of modern diesel generators. The problem has been approached by examining the existing literature, researching damage cases, analyzing existing data, and assessing industrial experiences.

The energy efficiency of a renewable energy system is inextricably linked to the energy storage technologies used in conjunction with it. The most extensively utilized energy storage technology for all purposes is electrochemical storage batteries, which have grown more popular over time because of their extended life, high working voltage, and low self-discharge rate. However, these batteries cannot withstand the very low temperatures encountered in cold regions, even with these very promising technical characteristics. The cold northern temperatures affect the batteries’ electromotive force and thus decrease their storage capacity. In addition, they affect the conductivity of the electrolyte and the kinetics of electrochemical reactions, thus influencing the capacity and speed of electrons in the electrolyte. In this article, which is intended as a literature review, we first describe the technical characteristics of charge–discharge rate of different electrochemical storage techniques and their variations with temperature. Then, new approaches used to adapt these electrochemical storage techniques to cold climates are presented. We also conduct a comparative study between the different electrochemical storage techniques regarding their performance in the harsh climatic conditions of the Canadian North.

In recent years, there has been a fast expansion in the usage of renewable energy sources (RESs) in power distribution systems. Numerous advantages result from this advancement, such as environmental friendliness, cost-effective power generation, easier maintenance, and energy sustainability and reliability. Reducing reliance on fossil fuels, which are of significant environmental concern, and increasing energy efficiency are two benefits of integrating RESs into maritime systems, such as port microgrids. As a result, ports are implementing several programs to increase energy efficiency using various RESs that are supported by power electronic converters. To highlight the most recent developments in seaport electrification and infrastructure, this work conducts a systematic review. It addresses important issues like energy efficiency enhancements, environmental concerns, the integration of renewable energy sources, the Internet of Things (IoT), and regulatory and legal compliance. The study also discusses technology strategies like digitization, electrification, onshore power supply systems, and port energy storage options. Operational tactics, including peak-shaving methods and energy-efficient operations, are also covered. Additionally, an infrastructure framework—which includes port microgrids and smart seaport microgrids—that is intended to enhance energy efficiency in contemporary ports is examined.