Cargo Ship Equipped with Special Sails Sets Sail to Study Wind Power’s Potential in Reducing Emissions
In a significant step towards reducing emissions and energy usage in the shipping industry, a cargo ship fitted with special sails has embarked on its maiden voyage. The maritime sector, responsible for approximately 3 percent of global carbon dioxide emissions, is under mounting pressure to decarbonize and is exploring various technologies such as wind power, ammonia, and methanol.
Cargill, a major ship charterer, has been at the forefront of initiatives to adopt cleaner energy options, specifically wind-assisted propulsion. Wind power was widely used in ships before the advent of steam and diesel engines, but its usage gradually dwindled, primarily limited to smaller vessels. However, with the industry’s urgent need to address its environmental impact, wind power is making a significant comeback.
The cargo ship involved in this groundbreaking project, Pyxis Ocean, is a five-year-old vessel that has been retrofitted with large wing sails called WindWings. These innovative sails have been developed by BAR Technologies and built by Yara Marine Technologies. By harnessing the power of wind, the ship aims to reduce both emissions and fuel consumption, with Cargill hopeful that the cost savings from fuel efficiency will offset the initial investment. Should the trial prove successful, Cargill plans to scale up the technology for broader adoption.
The Pyxis Ocean’s inaugural journey will take it from Singapore to Brazil, with the aim of transporting grain to Denmark. To maximize wind usage, the ship is expected to remain in the North Atlantic region. This strategic decision underlines the ship’s commitment to fully explore the potential of wind power in reducing its environmental impact.
The study of wind power in the shipping sector is a crucial step towards achieving the industry’s decarbonization goals. With the aim of reducing emissions and energy usage, the adoption of wind-assisted propulsion technology holds tremendous promise. As the Pyxis Ocean sets sail on its expedition, the global maritime industry eagerly waits for the results of this groundbreaking project, hoping it will pave the way for a cleaner and greener future.
