In response to a new study from UMAS and the UCL Energy Institute’s Shipping and Oceans Research Group, BAR Technologies is calling on the shipping industry to broaden its perspective on alternative fuels and recognize wind as a vital element in the decarbonisation of the sector. While alternative fuels such as e-ammonia are receiving significant attention, the company argues that wind power, a zero-emission and readily available resource, should play an equally pivotal role in the future fuel mix.
The study highlights the financial challenges faced by developing nations, particularly when it comes to accessing affordable financing for e-fuel production. Even though these regions often boast superior renewable resources like onshore wind and solar power, the cost of capital remains a significant barrier. BAR Technologies believes that wind-assisted propulsion, a technology that is both self-sufficient and abundant, could be the answer to bridging the energy transition gap, especially for nations in the global south.
The Case for Wind as an Integral Fuel Source
The UMAS and UCL study reveals that by 2030, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) will need an estimated $1.6 trillion in investment to transition the shipping industry to zero or near-zero emission fuels. Of this, $400 billion must be invested by 2030 alone. The report also points out that countries in the global south, despite having some of the best renewable energy resources, could face financial barriers that prevent them from competing with developed economies in the e-fuel market.
John Cooper, CEO of BAR Technologies, emphasized the importance of not overlooking wind as a viable alternative. “As the debate on new fuels intensifies, it’s critical not to overlook the most readily available energy source at our disposal: wind. While e-fuels hold potential, they come with significant costs and financing challenges that could impede the global decarbonisation effort, particularly in developing economies.”
He went on to stress that Wind-assisted Propulsion Systems (WAPS), such as WindWings®, offer a scalable, commercially viable solution that can meet decarbonisation targets in a way that is accessible to all nations, regardless of their economic status. Unlike costly e-fuels, wind propulsion offers an immediate, affordable alternative.
WindWings®: A Proven Solution for Emissions Reduction
Wind-assisted propulsion technology, like BAR Technologies’ WindWings®, is already making a significant impact. These innovative systems help ships worldwide reduce their reliance on expensive and volatile fossil fuels, providing immediate fuel savings and substantial emissions reductions.
WindWings® are designed to harness the power of wind using a patented three-element wing that delivers 2.5 times the lift of a single-element wing. What makes this technology particularly revolutionary is its simplicity—WindWings® do not require continuous power for suction fans or mechanical spinning mechanisms. Instead, the wings automatically adjust their camber and angle of attack for optimised efficiency, offering a scalable and low-cost solution for reducing emissions.
Cooper further elaborated on the potential of WindWings®, saying, “We need to diversify our fuel sources and look at wind as a complementary solution. Wind-assisted propulsion offers a low-cost, scalable alternative to expensive and complex e-fuels, and it can be part of a broader fuel mix to help us achieve a just transition to cleaner energy.”
The Urgency for Global Adoption of Wind Propulsion
The urgency for adopting wind-assisted propulsion becomes even more pronounced as the shipping industry approaches the IMO’s 2030 emissions targets. With the transition to greener fuels expected to incur significant costs, especially in developing nations, BAR Technologies believes that WindWings® can provide a more equitable path forward.
Cooper emphasized, “The solution isn’t to rely solely on expensive e-fuels that could put developing nations at a disadvantage. Instead, we need to leverage wind propulsion systems like WindWings® that can deliver immediate benefits without the need for complex, costly infrastructure.”
BAR Technologies’ Commitment to Wind-Powered Decarbonisation
BAR Technologies remains committed to the wider adoption of wind-assisted propulsion as a core element of the decarbonisation strategy for the shipping industry. The company’s WindWings® technology is already helping ships achieve significant operational cost savings. BAR Technologies offers a range of WindWings® models in three sizes—37.5m, 24m, and 20m—designed to meet the diverse needs of the maritime industry.
The wings are lightweight, requiring minimal deck reinforcement, and can be integrated into ships without disrupting existing operations. They can also be folded or remain non-foldable, offering flexibility for various operational scenarios, including pilotage and port operations. Additionally, the system operates entirely on electric power, ensuring easy installation and maintenance.
A Call for Action at MEPC 83
As the shipping industry continues to debate the future of fuels, BAR Technologies is urging participants at the IMO’s Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 83) in April to fully recognize the potential of wind as a crucial part of the solution.
Cooper concluded, “The winds of change are already here, and it’s time the shipping industry harnesses this abundant resource. Wind propulsion is not only viable and affordable, but it is also essential for achieving a fair transition to a zero-emission future for all nations.”
About BAR Technologies
Founded out of Great Britain’s former America’s Cup Team, BAR Technologies is a leader in next-generation maritime technology. The company provides a wide range of design and engineering consultancy services across commercial ships, workboats, and leisure boats. Their expertise in naval architecture, fluid dynamics, and system engineering allows them to deliver cutting-edge solutions for the shipping industry.
With its WindWings® technology, BAR Technologies is redefining how the maritime industry approaches fuel efficiency and emissions reduction, offering a proven solution that supports the global push for a more sustainable future.
Source BAR Technologies