OceanWings gets BV’s stamp of approval for its wind propulsion system

November 21, 2024, by Fatima Bahtić

French designer and manufacturer of wind propulsion systems OceanWings has received approval in principle (AiP) from classification society Bureau Veritas (BV) for its ‘innovative’ wind propulsion technology.

As disclosed, the approval was awarded in Athens on November 20, during an event organized by SNAME Greek Section and RISE. The AiP represents “a key development in the advancement of sustainable innovation for global shipping”, underscoring the importance of maritime innovation in driving environmentally responsible practices and technological advancements, according to OceanWings.

The company, earlier known as AYRO, changed its name and introduced an expanded wingsail portfolio designed to adapt to the cargo needs of ships of various types and sizes.

“The development of viable wind propulsion systems offers an exciting avenue to further supporting the maritime industry in its efforts to decarbonize. Solutions such as OceanWings OW RT technology provide a prime example of innovative technological developments that seek to integrate with current maritime operations, providing a viable means for ship owners and operators to make a meaningful impact on their carbon emissions,” commented Christophe Chauviere, Vice President – Southwest Europe, North Africa and Americas at Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore.

“Securing this AIP from Bureau Veritas, especially in Greece, represents a key endorsement for our work in providing the Shipping Industry with the most efficient Wind Assisted Propulsion Systems. It’s an affirmation of the importance of European shipping leadership in adopting and promoting sustainable maritime solutions,” said Christophe Paillusseau, VP Sales and Marketing at OceanWings.

The partnership between OceanWings and Bureau Veritas began with the successful development of the Canopée project, and this latest achievement signals continued progress in the field of sustainable maritime technology.

The ship Canopée is owned by Alizés, a joint venture formed between the companies Zéphyr & Borée and JIFMAR Offshore Services, which specialize in maritime and offshore operations. In 2023, the roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessel was fitted with OceanWings’ four wing sails.

The four sails, each measuring 30 meters in height and covering a total surface area of 363 square meters, are designed to harness wind power to supplement the vessel’s primary propulsion system. This wind-assisted propulsion is expected to reduce the Canopée’s fuel consumption by up to 30%, directly lowering the ship’s reliance on conventional fuel sources, according to OceanWings.

By reducing fuel consumption, the OceanWings system can contribute to a decrease in harmful emissions, including CO2, NOx, and SOx, which are major pollutants in the shipping industry, the company noted. The project underscores the growing push within the maritime sector to adopt greener, more energy-efficient solutions, helping to mitigate the environmental impact of global shipping operations.

OceanWings offers a range of wind propulsion solutions designed to reduce fuel consumption and emissions in the maritime industry. Their systems are primarily focused on harnessing the power of the wind to complement traditional ship propulsion systems. According to the company’s website, its wing sail portfolio includes rigid fixed wing sail, rigid tiltable wing sail, rigid elevator wing sail, and lowerable fixed wing sail.

The wing sails can be installed on a wide variety of ships, particularly those engaged in long-distance or cargo transport. They can also be retrofitted to existing vessels to enable the shipowners to reduce their carbon footprint.