Wind ships and Wind Hybrid propulsion cutting fuel costs and emissions of Commercial ships and tankers

Rajesh Uppal August 8, 2024 Energy & Propulsion, Industry, Navy Comments Off on Wind ships and Wind Hybrid propulsion cutting fuel costs and emissions of Commercial ships and tankers 476 Views

Introduction:

The shipping industry, vital for global trade, is undergoing a transformation spurred by the imperative to reduce fuel costs and curb emissions. As the world seeks sustainable solutions, wind ships and wind hybrid propulsion systems are emerging as game-changers, offering eco-friendly alternatives that harness the power of the wind to navigate the seas. From wind-assisted vessels to innovative wind hybrid propulsion systems, the integration of wind power is reshaping the future of maritime transportation. In this article, we explore the evolution of wind ships and wind hybrid propulsion, their environmental benefits, technological advancements, and their role in steering the shipping industry towards a cleaner, more sustainable future.

The Resurgence of Wind Propulsion:

Marine propulsion is the mechanism or system used to generate thrust to move a ship or boat across water. Wind propulsion, once the cornerstone of maritime trade, is experiencing a renaissance in the modern era. Advancements in technology have revitalized age-old concepts, presenting viable solutions to the pressing challenges facing the shipping industry. With mounting pressure to mitigate the environmental impact of shipping, wind propulsion has emerged as a compelling alternative to traditional fossil fuel-powered vessels. Wind ships, equipped with innovative sails and auxiliary propulsion systems, are reintroducing wind power as a primary means of propulsion, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and minimizing environmental impact.

In addition to large commercial ships equipped with wind propulsion technology, there are currently ten small cruise ships utilizing traditional soft sail technology, representing an additional 50,000 Gross Register Tonnage (GRT). Moreover, there is a rising trend in smaller vessels (under 400 GRT) adopting wind propulsion technology, with expectations for further growth in the coming years. This anticipated expansion stems from the conversion of more vessels to sail cargo, ongoing retrofits on small fishing vessels, and the launch of a demonstrator vessel in the South Pacific, all contributing to the increasing adoption of wind propulsion across various maritime sectors.

The European Union forecasts a substantial surge in wind propulsion installations, projecting up to 10,700 installations by 2030, covering half of the bulker market and potentially up to 65% of tankers. This ambitious adoption rate is expected to result in a significant reduction of 7.5 million tonnes of CO2 emissions. Additionally, the UK Clean Maritime Plan predicts that wind propulsion technologies will evolve into a GBP 2 billion per year segment, with an estimated 37,000-40,000 installations by the 2050s, constituting 40-45% market penetration. As the industry strives for greener solutions, wind propulsion emerges as a promising avenue to achieve emission reduction targets, offering a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to conventional propulsion methods.

Environmental Imperatives and Carbon Reduction Targets:

The maritime sector faces mounting scrutiny over its environmental footprint, prompting concerted efforts to curb emissions and embrace sustainable practices. Initiatives such as the Fleet Transition Plan aim to reduce carbon intensity by 50% by 2030, reflecting a collective commitment to address climate change. Without decisive action, emissions are projected to escalate substantially by 2050, underscoring the urgency for innovative solutions like wind propulsion to drive decarbonization efforts.

Recent installations of wind propulsion technology on large commercial vessels have surpassed the milestone of one million tonnes of deadweight (DWT), signaling a significant shift towards greener maritime practices. As the industry strives to meet ambitious carbon reduction targets, wind propulsion offers a viable pathway to achieve immediate and long-term emissions reductions.

Benefits of Wind Propulsion:

The adoption of wind ships and wind hybrid propulsion systems promises a multitude of benefits for the shipping industry and the environment. By harnessing renewable energy sources, these technologies reduce fuel consumption, resulting in substantial cost savings for shipowners and operators. Studies have shown that wind-assist systems can yield fuel savings of 5-20%, with even higher savings achievable for vessels utilizing primary wind propulsion. Moreover, the use of wind power significantly lowers greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change and achieve sustainability goals.

Moreover, wind power requires no new infrastructure and is available immediately, offering a cost-effective and readily deployable solution for shipowners. Wind propulsion is readily available, requires no new infrastructure, and can deliver savings of up to 30% for retrofits. Hybrid solutions combining wind propulsion with other renewables reduce power requirements and operational costs, contributing to a greener maritime industry. They play a crucial role in achieving net-zero emissions for ships designed today.

Wind Hybrid Propulsion Systems:

At the forefront of this maritime revolution are wind hybrid propulsion systems, which integrate wind energy with conventional engines to optimize fuel efficiency. These systems leverage the natural force of the wind to complement traditional propulsion methods, offering significant fuel savings and emissions reductions. By seamlessly blending wind power with existing engine systems, wind hybrid propulsion represents a practical and cost-effective solution for commercial vessels and tankers.

Wind power in the mix

Wind-assisted propulsion may not single-handedly solve the challenge of making ships emission-free, but it has the potential to contribute up to 30 percent of the propulsive power needed. According to Gavin Allwright, Secretary General of the International Windship Association, this significant contribution makes addressing the remaining 70 percent of emissions a more manageable task. Consequently, he anticipates a surge in the wind-assist market in the near future.

However, there are limitations to consider, particularly regarding range and the suitability of other zero-emission solutions for shipping. Some technologies may currently be impractical due to factors such as cost, size, weight, or power output. Allwright suggests that by leveraging wind power for 30 percent of propulsion needs, the focus can shift to addressing the remaining 70 percent more effectively.

To achieve comprehensive decarbonization, Allwright proposes a multifaceted approach he refers to as W.A.V.E.: Wind, Activity, Vessel, and Eco-fuels. Wind propulsion can provide up to 30 percent of power supply, while operational optimization (activity) and vessel optimization can yield additional power savings of 20 percent each. This leaves 40 percent of the energy requirement for eco-fuels. By combining wind propulsion with secondary renewables like 2nd generation biofuel, batteries, hydrogen, or ammonia, alongside various ship efficiency technologies, the shipping industry can significantly reduce carbon emissions and progress towards full decarbonization, even in the face of stringent greenhouse gas emission reduction targets.

WASP (Wind Assisted Ship Propulsion) Takes Sail in Europe

In Europe, a new chapter in the evaluation and implementation of wind-assist technology unfolds with the commencement of the WASP (Wind Assisted Ship Propulsion) project. This collaborative initiative brings together universities, wind-assist technology providers, and ship owners to delve into researching, testing, and validating the operational effectiveness of various wind propulsion solutions.

A recent milestone in this endeavor saw the successful installation of two retractable wing sails on the 289-foot Tharsis, a shortsea vessel plying the waters between the Netherlands and the U.K. These innovative units, supplied by eConowind, each span approximately 10 feet by 29.5 feet and boast self-adjusting technology, optimizing their efficiency in tandem with the vessel’s diesel-electric drive. When not in use, the wing sails can be neatly folded into a specially designed storage unit.

The installation of these wing sails, conducted at the Neptune Shipyard near Rotterdam, marks a significant step forward in harnessing wind power for maritime propulsion. As Tharsis Sea-River Shipping embarks on testing and optimizing the system over the coming years as part of the WASP project, expectations are high for its potential to demonstrate the viability of wind assistance in the shortsea shipping sector. With variable wind conditions encountered on routes traversing both rivers and the North Sea, the performance of these rigs, coupled with their cutting-edge self-adjusting technology, holds promise for a greener and more efficient future in maritime transport.

Innovative Designs and Technologies:

Wind power technology offers a truly emission-free and cost-effective energy source that can be directly delivered to a ship while it sails, without concerns about fuel security or supply threats. This abundant and globally available energy source, whether utilized through wind-assist technology or as the primary energy source for a vessel’s propulsion, has the potential to fulfill a significant portion of a ship’s total energy requirement throughout its operational lifespan. While mechanical systems have largely replaced wind-driven vessels in modern shipping, wind propulsion has made a resurgence in recent years, spanning from wind-assisted motor vessels to primary wind ships with auxiliary engines to maintain schedules.

The resurgence of wind propulsion traces back to the 1980s when Canadian physics professor Dr. Brad Blackford developed a small windmill-powered boat capable of sailing into a headwind at speeds surpassing those of sail-driven boats of similar size. Fast forward to April 2018, the cruise ferry M/S Viking Grace made history as the world’s first passenger ship equipped with a rotor sail, a vertical spinning cylinder harnessing wind power to propel the vessel. This innovative technology, pioneered by Norsepower, aims to significantly reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions, aligning with the shipping industry’s stringent fuel and emissions reduction requirements.

Innovators in the maritime sector are spearheading the development of cutting-edge wind propulsion technologies. From advanced sail designs to state-of-the-art rotor sails and rigid wings, a diverse array of solutions is revolutionizing the way ships harness wind energy. Additionally, ongoing research and development efforts are focused on enhancing the efficiency and scalability of wind propulsion systems, ensuring their viability across a wide range of vessel types and sizes.

Moreover, wind-assisted propulsion technologies, including Flettner rotors, have showcased their capability to sail directly into headwinds, leveraging electrical generators to activate electrically driven propellers. These advancements in wind-assisted propulsion technology, characterized by enhanced efficiency, reduced windage area, and automatic control systems, highlight the industry’s commitment to adopting sustainable alternatives in maritime transportation.

Innovators in the maritime sector are continuously advancing wind propulsion technologies to enhance efficiency and performance. From rotor sails and Flettner rotors to advanced sail designs and retractable wing sails, a diverse range of solutions is reshaping the landscape of wind-assisted propulsion. These innovations enable vessels to optimize wind thrust, adapt to varying wind conditions, and achieve greater fuel efficiency. Additionally, ongoing research initiatives such as the Wind Assisted Ship Propulsion (WASP) project are facilitating the validation and adoption of wind propulsion solutions across diverse vessel types.

Case Studies:

Several pioneering projects showcase the potential of wind ships and wind hybrid propulsion systems to transform the shipping industry. Examples include the installation of rotor sails on cargo vessels, the deployment of kite propulsion systems on tankers, and the development of hybrid-electric ferries powered by wind and renewable energy sources. These real-world applications demonstrate the tangible benefits of integrating wind propulsion into commercial shipping operations.

Commercial tankers embracing sail power as part of their propulsion system could mark a significant step forward in sustainable shipping practices.

Gavin Allwright, Secretary of the International Windship Association (IWSA), underscores the swift uptake of wind propulsion technology compared to alternative fuels in the shipping industry. According to Allwright, there are currently 31 large oceangoing vessels equipped with wind-assist technology systems, collectively capable of transporting around 2 million deadweight tons (dwt) of cargo. Additionally, there are eight wind-ready ships operational, 22 vessels with pending wind propulsion installations, and five newbuild ships slated to incorporate primary wind propulsion technology. When combined with over 20 smaller sail cargo and small cruise vessels utilizing wind power, the total number of wind-powered ships surpasses the count of large cargo ships operating on new low- and zero-emissions fuels in the global shipping fleet, which exceeds 50,000 vessels.

Project Unites Wind Propulsion and Hydrogen Generation for Zero-Emission Shipping

The exploration of wind power as a sustainable energy source for shipping is gaining momentum as companies seek innovative solutions for future vessels. While some initiatives focus on traditional sailing or wind-assist technologies, others aim to integrate wind energy into onboard power systems for vessels.

One such pioneering endeavor is the Wind Hunter Project, spearheaded by Japan’s Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) in collaboration with the National Maritime Research Institute (NMRI), the Graduate School of Frontier Sciences of The University of Tokyo, Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK), and other industry leaders in Japan. This ambitious project aims to combine wind propulsion sailing technology with hydrogen fuel generation, paving the way for a new era of zero-emission shipping.

The project entails harnessing wind energy through sail technology and converting it into a stable supply of hydrogen using onboard electrolyzers. During periods of low wind, an onboard turbine generates power to operate the electrolyzer, producing green hydrogen for propulsion via fuel cells. Additionally, excess hydrogen generated during strong wind conditions can be stored onboard using specialized alloy technology, with the potential for transferring surplus hydrogen to onshore applications.

To validate the feasibility and performance of this innovative concept, the project will commence with a feasibility study using a sailing yacht, followed by demonstration voyages involving larger vessels. Mitsui O.S.K. Lines has already demonstrated its commitment to wind propulsion technology through previous initiatives, such as obtaining Approval in Principle (AIP) for a hard sail system in collaboration with Oshima Shipbuilding Co. The Wind Challenger Project, initiated in 2009 and subsequently supported by various stakeholders, aims to advance wind propulsion technology and culminate in the deployment of a large-scale system on commercial vessels by 2030.

By integrating wind propulsion with hydrogen generation, the Wind Hunter Project represents a significant step toward achieving sustainable and emission-free maritime transportation. As the project progresses through testing and validation stages, it holds the potential to revolutionize the shipping industry’s approach to environmental stewardship and energy efficiency.

Given the myriad challenges surrounding the production, scalability, regulation, safety, and pricing of alternative fuels for shipping, this trend is likely to persist for the foreseeable future. The rapid adoption of wind propulsion technology underscores its viability as a practical and accessible solution to reducing emissions in the maritime sector, offering a compelling alternative to conventional fuel-based propulsion systems.

In a pioneering move, Norsepower Oy Ltd, a Finnish engineering and technology company, announced the installation and testing of Flettner rotor sails aboard a Maersk Tankers vessel.

This project represents the maiden voyage of wind-powered energy technology on a product tanker vessel and promises invaluable insights into fuel savings and operational efficiencies.

The selected vessel, a 109,647-ton Long Range 2 product tanker from Maersk Tankers, will undergo retrofitting with two 98-feet tall by 16-feet in diameter Norsepower Rotor Sails. These modernized versions of the Flettner rotor, utilizing the Magnus effect to harness wind power, are crafted using cutting-edge lightweight composite sandwich materials. When favorable wind conditions prevail, the Rotor Sails enable the throttling back of main engines, yielding substantial fuel cost and emission savings while maintaining operational schedules intact. Despite not yet being deployed on the approximately 20,000 applicable vessels in the global fleet, Norsepower’s Rotor Sails offer proven commercial viability, potentially reducing emissions by 10 to 15% per ship. Tuomas Riski, CEO of Norsepower, underscores wind power’s pivotal role in curbing fuel consumption and meeting impending carbon reduction targets within the shipping industry. He emphasizes that these innovative sails can synergize effectively with other technologies like hydrodynamic hull optimization, heat recovery, and alternative fuels, further enhancing their emission-reducing potential

Wave power meets space technology – for smarter, zero carbon ocean monitoring

In a groundbreaking fusion of wave power and space technology, marine technology start-up AutoNaut Ltd has introduced the AutoNaut Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV), propelled entirely by ocean waves and emitting zero carbon emissions. This innovative vessel represents one of the world’s pioneering commercial applications of wave propulsion technology, capable of enduring months at sea while covering extensive distances—up to hundreds of miles in a single week—in areas deemed too perilous for human presence. Remarkably silent, the AutoNaut USV possesses the unique capability to capture the intricate sounds of marine life, including the whistles and clicks of dolphins, across expansive oceanic regions.

Operated remotely from any location worldwide via satellite, the AutoNaut is equipped with state-of-the-art, solar-powered sensors designed to capture and transmit raw research data. This data is subsequently analyzed, processed, and relayed back to operators on land through a satellite communications network. This seamless integration of advanced technology enables real-time monitoring and data collection across vast oceanic expanses, facilitating invaluable insights into oceanic phenomena, environmental conditions, and marine life behaviors.

Real-world applications of wind propulsion technologies underscore their viability and scalability in commercial shipping. Projects like the installation of rotor sails on cargo vessels and the retrofitting of Flettner rotors on tankers demonstrate tangible fuel savings and emissions reductions. Looking ahead, forecasts indicate a significant uptake of wind propulsion systems, with thousands of installations projected by 2030. As the industry embraces wind-assisted propulsion as a key enabler of decarbonization, the future of commercial shipping looks increasingly sustainable and environmentally conscious.

Challenges and Future Outlook:

While wind propulsion holds immense promise, it also faces challenges related to scalability, infrastructure, and regulatory frameworks. Addressing these obstacles will require collaboration among industry stakeholders, governments, and research institutions to drive innovation and facilitate the widespread adoption of sustainable shipping practices. Looking ahead, the continued advancement of wind ships and wind hybrid propulsion systems is poised to reshape the maritime landscape, paving the way for a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.

Conclusion:

Wind ships and wind hybrid propulsion systems are revolutionizing commercial shipping, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuel-powered vessels. By harnessing the power of the wind, these innovative technologies are driving cost savings, reducing emissions, and promoting environmental stewardship in the maritime industry. As global efforts to combat climate change intensify, wind propulsion stands as a beacon of hope, steering us towards a greener and more sustainable future on the high seas.