BAR Technologies, a simulation-driven marine engineering consultancy, has entered into a partnership agreement with Yara Marine Technologies (Yara), a specialist in emission-reduction technologies in the maritime sector, to develop and commercialize BAR’s WindWings sail-assistance system.
Yara Marine will offer WindWings to shipowners globally and manage the value chain of procurement, construction, installation, service and training for the system, which is claimed to offer up to a 30% reduction in fuel consumption for bulk carriers, tankers and other large vessels. This is achieved by combining wind propulsion with route optimization. The product features large, solid wing sails that measure up to 45m in height, fitted to the deck of bulk cargo ships to harness the power of the wind. The system is due to be deployed on a vessel owned by food and agriculture company, Cargill.
John Cooper, CEO at BAR Technologies, said, “Yara Marine has consistently demonstrated its ability and dedication in providing commercial shipping operators with new emission-reducing technologies throughout the value chain, which made them a natural partner for the program. Working with Yara to deliver the first installation of WindWings for Cargill sets the benchmark as a true industry first, and we believe that the combination of expertise afforded by all parties marks out the technology for long-term commercial success. Moving forward, the time is right for WindWings to be offered across the global industry, by benefiting from Yara Marine’s extensive network and experience.”
Jan Dieleman, president of ocean transportation at Cargill, added, “Wind propulsion is increasingly important due to its high energy-saving potential and because it works well in any combination with other devices and fuels. WindWings is a novel solution that is a great addition to our toolkit. Through our partnership we will bring bespoke wind solutions to customers who are actively seeking to reduce CO2 emissions from their supply chain. We’re pleased that Yara Marine will be partnering with BAR Technologies on WindWings, as it brings our first retrofit ever closer.”