MOL obtains ‘world’s first’ approval for LNG carrier with wind-assisted propulsion

August 2, 2024, by Ajsa Habibic

Japanese shipping major Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) has received approval in principle (AiP) from compatriot classification society ClassNK for the design of a membrane LNG carrier installing Wind Challenger, a hard sail wind power propulsion system.

According to MOL, this is the world’s first approval for an LNG carrier with a wind-assisted propulsion system.

The AiP was issued for the 174,000 cubic meter (cbm) LNG carrier equipped with two Wind Challenger sails and can enter LNG terminals worldwide.

CG rendering showing LNG carrier fitted with Wind Challenger. Courtesy of MOL

Following the approval, the detailed design work is underway for a new LNG carrier ordered by MOL at Hanwha Ocean shipyard, aiming for the actual installation.

MOL, Hanwha Ocean, and ClassNK conducted a risk assessment to comprehensively evaluate factors such as the placement of the sails, their impact on visibility, emergency operation procedures, and other safety measures before awarding the AiP.

Additionally, the evaluation of the impact on the cargo tank due to the sail installation, conducted by French company GTT, the designer of the vessel’s cargo tank, contributed to obtaining this AiP. GTT has confirmed that the structural safety of the tank is sufficiently ensured, even when considering the stresses imposed by sails, MOL said.

Under its target of achieving net zero GHG emissions by 2050, the Japanese shipping major plans to launch 25 vessels equipped with the Wind Challenger by 2030 and 80 vessels by 2035.