Union Maritime to install WindWings on 34 new tanker builds.

UK shipping company Union Maritime has partnered with fellow British design and engineering firm BAR Technologies to implement wind-assisted propulsion solutions on a fleet of 34 new vessels. The collaboration will see the deployment of WindWings, a rigid sail technology, on a variety of tankers including LR2, chemical, and MR types. This initiative aims to achieve significant fuel and CO2 savings on global routes, with each wing delivering an average daily fuel saving of 1.5 tonnes.

In addition to working with BAR Technologies, Union Maritime is also collaborating with Finnish company Norsepower to install rotor sails on smaller vessels. The adoption of wind propulsion technology not only offers environmental benefits but also economic advantages for shipowners and charterers by reducing fuel costs without compromising speed or quality of service. This strategic move aligns with the company’s broader environmental initiatives, which include the deployment of dual-fuel LNG engines and other efficiency-enhancing technologies.

The growing popularity of wind-assisted ship propulsion is evident in the maritime industry, with an increasing number of shipowners opting for decarbonization solutions. According to the International Windship Association, there were 37 wind propulsion-installed vessels and eleven wind-ready ships as of late March 2024, totaling 2.5 million dwt. Demonstrator ships across various segments are paving the way for wider adoption of wind propulsion technology, signaling a shift towards more sustainable shipping practices.

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