Sails up!

Testing, inspection, and certification company Bureau Veritas (BV) has delivered an Approval in Principle (AiP) to Zéphyr & Boréefor its first open-top 1,800 TEU containership, demonstrating the feasibility of using wind-propelled wing-sails on this type of vessel.

The 185 metre-long container vessel is designed with five cargo holds, mostly open-top. Propulsion means are compliant with IMO’s Tier III requirements, and the vessel is equipped with shaft generators and a heat recovery system that minimises fuel consumption. The vessel’s propulsion system will be assisted by eight sails provided by CWS (Computed Wing Sails). The design is a thick, asymmetrical wing-sail that can be steered to catch port and starboard winds, and adjusts itself automatically depending on the wind conditions to ensure optimal savings.

In the race to decarbonise their fleet, many shipowners are researching alternative propulsion methods as a way to improve the energy efficiency of their vessels and reduce their emissions. Among emerging options, wind-assisted propulsion is considered a strong contender for achieving significant emissions reduction, using a free, clean and renewable energy source available worldwide.  Read more….

Bureau Veritas validates wind-assisted propulsion system for 1,800 TEU container ship