The maritime industry is on the cusp of a significant transformation, driven by the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and meet stringent international regulations. As the world’s shipping fleet grapples with the challenge of decarbonization, wind-assisted propulsion systems (WAPS) are emerging as a promising solution. According to a recent study published in ‘Energies’, led by Marcin Kolodziejski from the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at the Maritime University of Szczecin, the adoption of WAPS is accelerating, with a growing number of vessels being equipped with these innovative systems.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has set ambitious targets to reduce emissions, aiming for net-zero by 2050. This has spurred the maritime industry to explore alternative propulsion technologies. Wind power, once the primary means of propulsion for sailing ships, is now being harnessed to supplement modern engines, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. “The number of vessels equipped with wind propulsion technologies is relatively low, but the number of planned implementations of WAPS is increasing,” Kolodziejski notes. “According to our research, there are 101 ships on which WAPSs were installed or are to be installed. The number of orders is accelerating rapidly, with 29 systems installed between 2018 and 2023 and 72 orders in 2024.”
The study highlights several types of WAPS, including rotor sails, suction wings, and rigid sails, each with its own advantages and applications. Rotor sails, for instance, use the Magnus effect to generate thrust, while suction wings create lift by accelerating airflow over their surfaces. These technologies are not only technologically ready but also commercially viable, with a growing number of shipowners opting for retrofitting existing vessels or incorporating WAPS into new builds.
The commercial impact of this trend is significant. As the cost of alternative fuels rises, the economic benefits of WAPS become more apparent. “Fuel savings will also depend on the specific route of the ship,” Kolodziejski explains. “To improve the WAPS efficiency, it may be required to optimize ships’ routes to balance the route length and availability of favorable wind—to apply voyage optimization.” This optimization could lead to substantial savings for shipping companies, making WAPS an attractive investment.
However, the study also points out challenges that need to be addressed. The cost-benefit analysis of WAPS installation is complex, and there are no standardized criteria for validating fuel savings. This uncertainty could hinder widespread adoption, but as the technology matures and more data becomes available, the market is expected to grow.
The IMO’s Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) is another driving force behind the adoption of WAPS. Ships must achieve at least a C rating, and the implementation of WAPS can help improve their CII, extending the lifetime of compliant vessels. “The implementation of WAPS may allow shipowners to increase the lifetime of fully compliant vessels by a few years,” Kolodziejski states. This could have a profound impact on the maritime industry, encouraging more shipowners to invest in WAPS.
As the maritime industry continues to evolve, the role of WAPS is set to become increasingly important. With the number of orders and installations expected to rise, the future of shipping looks set to be shaped by the wind. The study, published in ‘Energies’, provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of WAPS and their potential to revolutionize maritime transport. As the industry navigates the challenges of decarbonization, wind-assisted propulsion systems offer a beacon of hope, guiding the way towards a more sustainable future.
