The BARTech WindWings by Yara Marine are an advanced wind-assisted propulsion and path optimization system. The WindWings system is highly customizable and easy to use. Simulations demonstrate up to 1.5 tonnes of fuel savings per Wing per day on average global routes without speed reduction.
What are WindWings?
Designed by innovative naval architects at BAR Technologies, the WindWings system combines dynamic multi-element wings and advanced path optimization to harness the power of the wind. This results in significantly improved fuel efficiency, leading to substantial reductions in fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
WindWings are designed for low OpEx with easy operation and low maintenance:
The fenders are mounted on the deck of the boat, but can be folded at the push of a button. The system is automated, which means it is easy and safe to operate without the need for additional crew. In addition, it achieves low energy consumption.
All components are made of high quality, durable materials. The system is suitable for both retrofits and new constructions as well as being configurable for different types and sizes of vessels.
“The maritime industry is on a journey to decarbonise – it’s not an easy one, but it’s an exciting one,” said Jan Dieleman, the president of Cargill’s ocean transportation business.
Pioneering research
This facility is the culmination of years of pioneering research. It demonstrates a gradual change in attitude towards technologies that can enable an energy transition for existing vessels.
WindWings can help the industry achieve these goals by offering a retrofit solution capable of decarbonizing existing ships. This is particularly important given that 55% of the world's bulk fleets are up to nine years old.
“If international shipping is to achieve its ambition of reducing CO2 emissions, then innovation must come to the fore. Wind is a near marginal cost-free fuel and the opportunity for reducing emissions, alongside significant efficiency gains in vessel operating costs, is substantial, said John Cooper, Chief Executive Officer, BAR Technologies.
Saving fuel to save carbon
Shipping, although essential to trade, is responsible for up to 3% of the global greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change. With the shipping industry responsible for transporting no less than 90% of global trade, there is increasing pressure on the industry to rapidly reduce its carbon footprint.
BAR Technologies developed the sails, which were manufactured by Yara Marine Technologies. Flap sails are expected to produce average fuel savings of up to 30% on new-build ships, thereby reducing shipping's carbon footprint. This could be even higher if used in combination with alternative fuels.
The first wind powered cargo ship
Pyxis Ocean launches European Union-funded WindWings technology, bringing state-of-the-art wind propulsion to commercial shipping for the first time.
The development of the WindWings fixed-wing sail system is at the heart of the EU-backed CHEK project, coordinated by the University of Vaasa in Finland. The project brought together 17 partners, specialized in different fields.
The five-year bulk carrier Pyxis Ocean, chartered by project partner and shipping company Cargill, is the first ship to be retrofitted with WindWings. These large winged sails, up to 37.5 meters high, are placed on the deck of cargo ships to harness the power of the wind. The aim is to help industry chart a course towards a low-carbon path.
The installation of the fins was done at the COSCO shipyard in China. Pyxis Ocean is now on its maiden voyage to Brazil – not only making waves but also making news across the world around the world with media coverage including the BBC .
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