BAR Technologies’ WindWings Set Sail on a Decarbonization Journey
In a groundbreaking leap toward a more sustainable future, the collaboration between Cargill and BAR Technologies has ushered in a new era of innovation in the shipping industry. The result? The awe-inspiring WindWings by Yara Marine Technologies, a revolutionary wind propulsion technology that has taken its maiden voyage, setting a new course for commercial shipping.
A First in Commercial Shipping
Mitsubishi Corporation’s Pyxis Ocean emerges as the trailblazer in this pioneering endeavor. Fitted with two colossal WindWings, towering at an impressive 37.5 meters in height, this vessel becomes the first to retrofit this wind propulsion technology. Moreover, Yara Marine Technologies produced these mammoth wing sails, designed to harness the wind’s power. And they promise to yield fuel savings of 30% and higher averagely for new build vessels – a figure that might soar even higher when paired with alternative fuels. The company installed the WindWings in China, at the COSCO shipyard. And this even marks a pivotal milestone in the journey towards greener seas.
Cargill’s Decarbonization Commitment
Jan Dieleman, President of Cargill’s Ocean transportation business, noted that the maritime industry is currently trying to decarbonize. While it’s not easily achievable task, it is an interesting one. With an unwavering commitment to a more sustainable future, Cargill recognizes the responsibility to pioneer decarbonization solutions. The collaboration with visionary shipowner Mitsubishi Corporation demonstrates their dedication to investing. Furthermore, they will take risks, and drive transparency to accelerate the maritime industry’s transition to a more environmentally-friendly horizon.
A Step Towards Retrofitting and Decarbonization
The WindWings project, co-funded by the European Union through the CHEK Horizon 2020 initiative, heralds a paradigm shift in the industry’s attitude towards energy transition technologies. This initiative has the potential to assist the industry in meeting ambitious carbon reduction targets. Instead, it’s offering retrofit solutions capable of decarbonizing existing vessels. This holds particular significance, given that a substantial 55% of the world’s bulker fleets are under a decade old.
A Promising Future Ahead
The performance of the WindWings is under close scrutiny in the coming months to fine-tune their design, operation, and efficiency. As the Pyxis Ocean sets sail, it’s poised to not only inform Cargill’s fleet but the industry at large. BAR Technologies and Yara Marine Technologies are gearing up to construct hundreds of these groundbreaking wings over the next four years. Additionally, BAR Technologies is exploring newbuilds with enhanced hydrodynamic hull forms.
Harnessing the Power of Wind
John Cooper, CEO of BAR Technologies, stated that international shipping aims to achieve its ambition of reducing CO2 emissions. But for that, innovation is crucial. WindWings offer the maritime world a unique opportunity to reduce emissions. At the same time, there might be substantial efficiency in vessel operating costs. By utilizing wind power, WindWings emerge as an invaluable asset for vessel owners. The latter will be able to meet new Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) regulations and optimize their operations.
A Sustainable Sail Towards Tomorrow
The WindWing Project isn’t just a leap; it’s a leap towards a more sustainable tomorrow. By harnessing wind power, these wings hold the promise of substantial fuel savings, potentially saving vessel owners from heavy fuel oil expenses. As the maritime industry navigates toward greener seas, the innovative WindWings become the beacon guiding us to a cleaner, more efficient, and promising future. And it’s all thanks to the visionary prowess of BAR Technologies.
