The upcoming SMM trade fair in Hamburg will highlight the increasing presence of wind-powered shipping, reflecting a growing trend in the maritime industry towards renewable energy sources. Modern wind propulsion solutions allow ship operators to utilize wind power for cargo and passenger ships, with various systems available on the market. The International Windship Association (IWSA) has observed a rise in interest from a diverse range of market stakeholders, with small fleet orders being placed by shipowners rather than single ship deployments.
As of July this year, there were forty-five vessels equipped with wind propulsion technology and ten wind-ready vessels, totaling over 3 million DWT. This marks a significant three-fold increase in installations compared to the previous 12-month period. The surge in wind-powered vessels can be attributed to the improved performance of wind propulsion technology, decreasing installation costs, and a strong return on investment, especially as fossil fuel and alternative fuel prices remain high.
Gavin Allwright, the Secretary General of IWSA, expressed enthusiasm for the growing interest in wind propulsion technology. He noted the frequent announcements of new projects, order confirmations, and installation celebrations, indicating a sector that is advancing with the wind at its back. The industry is moving towards a future propelled by renewable energy sources, signaling a shift away from reliance on traditional fossil fuels.
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