Wind propulsion developer BAR Technologies (BAR) has launched new 20m and 24m models of its WindWings, designed to save 0.7 tonnes of fuel per day per WindWing on average on worldwide routes.
Building on the 37.5m WindWings, which demonstrated significant energy reductions, the new models are expected to make wind-assisted propulsion (WAP) technology accessible to a broader range of vessels, including handysize bulkers, chemical tankers, and other smaller ships, effectively increasing the target fleet size by nearly 50%.
The new models weigh less than 30 tonnes and can be fitted on both newbuilds and retrofits, BAR explains.
Key features of the 20-24m WindWings include:
- Maximum thrust and fuel savings: The patented 3-element rigid wing sail with passive boundary layer control does not require suction fans or a continuous power supply.
- Foldable and non-foldable variants: Designed for operational flexibility, the wings can be compacted to minimize their footprint during pilotage and port operations navigation.
- Electric-powered operations: The wings operate entirely on electrical power, simplifying installation and ongoing operations while maintaining high performance.
- Fail-safe design: With a self-feathering mechanism, the wings can withstand extreme weather conditions, enduring up to 100 knots of true wind speed.
- Full-turnkey solution: Providing comprehensive support from initial concept to ongoing maintenance, ensuring seamless integration and operation.
According to BAR, the new models, which are projected to deliver 0.7 tonnes of fuel savings per WindWing per day on average on worldwide routes, will be manufactured in China and Spain from next year, aligning with the growing global demand driven by regulatory measures such as the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS), with similar policies anticipated in South Korea and Turkey.
WindWings’ fuel-saving capabilities were first independently validated by DNV Maritime earlier this year. Their deployment on vessels such as the Pyxis Ocean and Berge Olympus has demonstrated a 32% reduction in energy use per nautical mile.