The recently concluded SPINE 3 project has addressed how UK ports can ready themselves for the safe and effective arrival of uncrewed electric vessels. Key areas of focus included energy readiness, the establishment of remote communications, digital authorisation protocols, and robust operational oversight mechanisms.

Throughout its progression, SPINE 1 investigated new ship-to-shore interface concepts, while SPINE 2 applied these innovations to a conceptual uncrewed, electrified short-sea vessel. Building on these foundations, SPINE 3 has delivered a practical toolkit and scalable deployment models designed to help ports assess their real-world readiness and guide the implementation process.

At the conclusion of the SPINE project, SPINE 3 introduced the Port Readiness for Uncrewed Vessels (PRUV) Protocol developed for Portsmouth International Port, and explored how uncrewed operations can be aligned with the Port Marine Safety Code framework. A central finding emphasises that maritime electrification involves more than simply converting vessels; it necessitates a transformation of port infrastructure. For electrification to be effective, grid capacity, energy storage, and operational systems must be designed as a unified whole.

The logical progression from these efforts is the establishment of a live commercial demonstrator. This next phase will bring together electrification, energy storage, carbon logistics, and regulatory-aligned autonomy, showcasing the potential of integrated, sustainable maritime operations.

SPINE (Shipping and Port Interfaces In New Era) was supported by MarRI-UK as part of the Smart Maritime Land Operations Call.

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