ClassNK Grants First-Ever Approval in Principle for Wind-Assisted LNG Carrier

Tokyo – ClassNK has awarded the world’s first Approval in Principle (AiP) for a membrane-type LNG carrier equipped with the innovative “Wind Challenger” hard sail wind propulsion system. This groundbreaking vessel is a joint development by Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) and Hanwha Ocean Co., Ltd., marking a significant milestone in maritime technology.

The Wind Challenger system, designed to harness wind power, aims to address stringent environmental regulations and reduce fuel costs. By leveraging wind-assisted propulsion, these systems are expected to significantly lower CO2 emissions. However, their implementation also introduces potential risks to the ship’s structure, the safety of crew members, and the surrounding environment.

To mitigate these risks, ClassNK has published the “Guidelines for Wind-Assisted Propulsion Systems for Ships,” providing a safety framework for the design and operation of vessels equipped with such systems.

Sailing Towards Sustainability: MOL’s Innovative Wind Challenger Project

ClassNK’s review process for the AiP involved an in-depth evaluation of the ship’s conceptual design, based on their “Rules and Guidance for the Survey and Construction of Steel Ships” and the latest “Guidelines for Wind-Assisted Propulsion Systems for Ships (Edition 2.0).” This rigorous examination ensured compliance with all necessary requirements, leading to the issuance of the AiP.

Approval in Principle (AiP):

An Approval in Principle (AiP) is granted at the early design stage or before a specific target ship is selected for implementation. It involves examining the design against existing regulations, including international conventions and ship classification rules. The AiP serves as proof of conformity, preventing regulatory rework later in the process, shortening examination times during class registration, and providing a technical foundation for external validation of the design.