WindWings construction under way

During the first half of 2023, the first production run of two WindWings will be installed on MC Shipping-owned, Pyxis Ocean, and four on Berge Bulk’s Berge Olympus. Global commodities business, Cargill, which charters the Pyxis Ocean, will be the first operator to see fuel savings and lower carbon emissions from the WindWings installation.

“The failure of COP27 to reach consensus on phasing down fossil fuels has reminded us of the imperative to keep innovating at an industry level in order to reach our goals for decarbonising global bulk shipping,” said John Cooper, chief executive at BAR Technologies.

“However, with the CII regulations set to come into force in January 2023, vessel owners are not in a position to just do nothing.

“The positive news is that with technologies like WindWings, alongside much of the work being done into future powertrains, vessel owners have options on the table to be able to adapt quickly, reducing the risk of stranded assets,” he added.

WindWings allow operators to save around a reported 1.5 tonnes of fuel per WindWing per day on average global routes.

At present, production is focused on the main spar elements that give the WindWings their height, alongside the associated booms, towers and slew bearings.

Manufacturing is also progressing with the tilt mechanism that allows the WindWings to be stowed during dockside operations, when passing under structures or in certain sea conditions.

The composite parts of the wings are also well advanced with the assembly and testing to follow.

The installation is being conducted in tandem with contractual partner Yara Marine Technologies, which manages procurement, construction, installation, service, and training for the WindWings.