WIND-ASSISTED PROPULSION WindWings technology was installed on the Newcastlemax Berge Olympus in 2023 Renewable and free, wind power looks set to play an important role in future decarbonization strategies. E&H Marine rounds up some of the latest wind-assisted propulsion vessel projects WORDS: RICHARD GOODING BREATH OF FRESH AIR A s the focus on climate challenges grows, the latest International Maritime Organization greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction targets call for a 40% decrease in emissions (compared with 2008) by 2030, rising to 50% in 2050. With the shipping industry responsible for around 3% of GHG emissions globally, there has never been a more pressing time to adopt more efficient means of motion. Redeployment of wind power is the simplest form of propulsion, utilizing the latest technologies such as wing or rotor sails and parafoil kite systems to deliver vessels that are more efficient and less polluting. 26 // January 2024 // ElectricHybridMarineTechnology.com