Increasing number of evidence shows how Econowind’s wind-assisted ship propulsion technology and ABB’s advanced routing optimization are helping ships to reduce fuel consumption and respond to tightening regulations.
As an inexhaustible, free and zero-carbon energy source, wind is enjoying a renaissance as a propulsion solution for global shipping. With the International Windship Association predicting 800 ships will feature sails or be ‘wind-ready’ by 20281, new analysis from the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research suggests that adopting wind assistance across the world fleet could cut shipping’s fuel consumption by 6.3–9.4 percent. ABB has partnered with Netherlands-based Econowind to provide weather routing services for wind-assisted vessels. Integrating ABB Ability™ Routing Services with wind-assisted propulsion helps enhance performance and maximize fuel savings through real-time weather and route optimization.
Econowind’s Wind-Assisted Ship Propulsion (WASP) solution VentoFoil is modern, aerodynamic wind-assisted propulsion system for ships, which generates forward thrust from the wind. By utilizing boundary-layer suction, it creates a pressure difference that propels the vessel forward, which decreases the need for power from main engine. Installed onboard existing and newbuild vessels, VentoFoil can help a vessel in transit maintain its required speed on lower main engine power, reducing fuel consumption by 6-10 percent. (....)