Cargill to install windsail technology

With a chartered fleet of around 600 bulk carriers and tankers, the company is part of a project involving naval architect Deltamarin and engineering firm BAR Technologies to introduce wind propulsion technology to commercial shipping.

The project will see BAR Technology’s WindWings – 45-m tall, solid wing sails – fitted to the deck of bulk cargo ships to harness wind power and reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 30%.

Cargill Ocean Transportation president Jan Dieleman said the partnership will help the company offer customers ways to improve vessel efficiency and cut down on emissions to comply with a changing regulatory scene.

“Changing regulations and uncertainty about future greener marine fuels makes choosing the right vessel to charter with a long-term view complicated. With the WindWings technology, Cargill will be able to offer customers a solution that improves vessel efficiency independent of the fuel or type of engine used” he said.

BAR chief executive John Cooper said “Wind is a near marginal cost-free fuel and the opportunity for reducing emissions, alongside significant efficiency gains in vessel operating costs, is substantial.” Chairman Martin Whitmarsh said “Cargill’s endorsement of our technology is a very significant step forward at the forefront of the industry. Together we’re putting our words into action, marking this project as a first of its kind.”

The move is expected to support Cargill’s commitment to the Sea Cargo Charter – an initiative to commit to greater transparency in reporting emissions, of which the company is a founding member.

The project is currently in the design phase, bringing together a team of companies to deliver the first vessels – expected on the water by 2022. The team will share risk and expertise, starting with product tankers before moving to dry bulk vessels.