MOL and Chevron Team Up for World’s First LNG Carrier with Wind-Assisted Propulsion

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) and Chevron Shipping Company LLC (Chevron) have announced an exciting new project. They will be adding a special technology called Wind Challenger to a new LNG (liquefied natural gas) carrier. This ship, under construction and set to be delivered in 2026, will be the first LNG carrier in the world to use Wind-Assisted Ship Propulsion Systems.

The Wind Challenger is a cutting-edge system designed to help ships use wind power to reduce their fuel consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. It features large, telescopic sails that capture the wind to help the ship move more efficiently.

The new LNG carrier is being built at the Geoje Shipyard of Hanwha Ocean Co., Ltd. In August 2024, the ship received an important approval from Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (Class NK), making it the first LNG carrier to get approval for a Wind-Assisted Ship Propulsion System.

Chevron’s vessel will be the first to use this technology. The installation of Wind Challenger is carefully planned to make sure it doesn’t change the ship’s existing design or affect its mooring arrangements. This will help the ship stay compatible with the existing systems at ports.

MOL Announces Completion of Green Winds, Equipped with Wind Challenger

Barbara Pickering, President of Chevron Shipping Company, expressed excitement about this partnership, saying, “We are proud to work with MOL on this industry-first installation. It’s another step towards reducing carbon intensity in our LNG fleet.”

Takeshi Hashimoto, President and CEO of Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, added, “With Chevron’s support, we’re thrilled to extend the Wind Challenger Project to LNG carriers. Reducing GHG emissions in LNG transport is a crucial goal for us. This project is a big step towards our goal of ‘net zero GHG emissions by 2050,’ as outlined in our Environmental Vision 2.2.”

The Wind Challenger technology will be showcased at the Gastech Exhibition & Conference 2024 in Houston from September 17-20. There will be information sessions about how this technology can be used for LNG carriers and other types of ships.

About MOL: MOL is a major global shipping company with over 800 vessels in service. They offer a range of services, including ocean shipping, environmental protection, and more. MOL’s fleet includes dry cargo ships, LNG carriers, car carriers, and tankers. The company also provides services related to real estate, terminal operations, and offshore wind power. With 140 years of experience, MOL is dedicated to advancing global infrastructure and supporting daily life.

About Chevron: Chevron is a leading energy company that focuses on providing affordable, reliable, and cleaner energy. They produce crude oil and natural gas, manufacture fuels, lubricants, and petrochemicals, and develop new technologies. Chevron aims to grow its business while lowering carbon emissions and investing in renewable energy and other new technologies.