Wind Power Could Slash Cargo Shipping Emissions by 20%

Cargo shipping contributes about 3% of the world’s annual greenhouse-gas emissions. If trends continue, this could rise to 10% by 2050. Wind propulsion technology offers a promising solution, potentially reducing emissions by up to 20%. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) aims for net zero emissions by 2050, and wind power is seen as indispensable in achieving this goal. Modern cargo sails come in various forms, including rigid wings, rotors, suction sails, and kites.

Rigid sails, like those developed by Oceanbird, can reduce fuel use by up to 10% per trip. Norsepower’s Flettner rotors, spinning up to 300 times per minute, provide 10 times more thrust than conventional sails, with fuel savings between 5% to 30%. Suction sails, an innovation from the 1980s, generate 20% more thrust per square meter than traditional designs. Kites, flying at high altitudes, can save 9% to 15% in fuel. By late 2024, eight cargo vessels with hard wings and 27 with rotor sails were in operation, with more expected to join by 2026.

Source: www.technologyreview.com

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