Dalian Shipbuilding Industry Co., Ltd. (DSIC) has introduced a new generation of vessel designs aimed at decarbonization, notably a wind-assisted 175,000 m³ LNG carrier that has received Approval in Principle (AiP) from Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore (BV). This endorsement validates the technical feasibility and regulatory compliance of incorporating wind-assisted propulsion into standard LNG carrier operations.
The innovative LNG carrier features a hybrid propulsion system that combines LNG dual-fuel technology with sail assistance, offering a cost-effective upgrade for the existing fleet. Designed for enhanced energy efficiency, the vessel ensures operational reliability and ease of maintenance. It comes equipped with three advanced foldable wing sails made from lightweight composite materials, which can independently fold and rotate. An intelligent monitoring system continuously gathers wind data and adjusts sail angles in real time to optimize performance.
On typical routes, this design is projected to reduce overall energy consumption by over 5% and lower annual CO₂ emissions by approximately 2,900 tons. The anticipated Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) is expected to be around 58% below the baseline, aligning with the IMO’s greenhouse gas reduction strategy and enhancing the long-term value and competitiveness for shipowners.
As part of the AiP process, BV conducted thorough assessments of structural integrity, material durability, and operational safety, confirming the design’s readiness for challenging ocean-going LNG transport. This AiP further solidifies the ongoing collaboration between BV and DSIC in promoting low-carbon shipping solutions, building on their previous work in LNG carriers and alternative-energy vessels to advance green shipping concepts from design to commercial viability.
Share it now
