ABS, MARIN Launch Wind Propulsion Project

The classification society ABS and Netherlands based research institute MARIN have launched a Joint Industry Project (JIP) to investigate transparent and validated methods to assess performance of wind-assisted shipping propulsion technologies.

The wind propulsion technology is a key driver in owners/operators investment decision-making.

The JIP focuses on the majority of all marketed wind-assisted ship propulsors, while also aims to overcome the challenge to the uptake of these technologies by:
- Improving methods for transparent performance prediction.
- Using the improved methods to provide ship owners/operators with fast predictions for their fleet
- Reviewing the regulatory environment to identify gaps and make recommendations and provide examples on establishing compliance.

“As the regulatory framework increases pressure to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the time is right to explore the potential of wind to generate savings on emissions, fuel and cost. This project has significant potential to reduce barriers to the adoption of sustainable wind propulsion technologies and make a positive contribution to achieving IMO 2030 and 2050 objectives,” said Gurinder Singh, ABS Global Sustainability Director.

“Through the ABS Global Sustainability Center, ABS is supporting leading-edge maritime sustainability initiatives all over the world. This JIP with MARIN is just the latest example of how we can help the industry transition to a low carbon economy,” Singh added.

Wind-assisted propulsion technologies decrease the fuel consumption of a merchant vessel through the use of sails or some other device converting the kinetic energy of the wind into thrust.

Patrick Hooijmans, MARIN Senior Project Manager Ships, said: “A major barrier to use of wind energy on board is the shortage of transparent and independently verified methods to predict the performance of wind propulsors. A reliable model will assist in adoption, as the profitability   of an investment is in a subjective realm of wide-spread opinions."

Patrick added: "Furthermore, the industry can use examples and custom work to demonstrate compliance with statutory and class rules and regulations. MARIN and ABS are committed to exploring ways of overcoming these barriers.”