Why wind propulsion is an important piece in shipping’s
Wind Power Revolutionizes Shipping Costs
As the maritime industry braces for a shift towards sustainability, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has introduced new measures aimed at decarbonizing shipping. These regulations, particularly the European Union’s Emission Trading System (ETS) and FuelEU Maritime (FEUM), are prompting shipowners to explore innovative technologies like wind propulsion systems (WPS). Recent studies indicate that adopting WPS can lead to significant reductions in operational costs, especially for vessels trading within EU waters.
Embracing Wind Propulsion for Cost Savings
With the maritime sector under pressure to transition from fossil fuels to cleaner alternatives, wind propulsion technology has emerged as a viable and cost-effective solution. The newly implemented FuelEU Maritime regulation incentivizes the adoption of WPS through a wind rewards factor (WRF), which can provide up to a 5% reduction on greenhouse gas (GHG) calculations for vessels that derive at least 15% of their propulsive power from wind. This regulatory framework is expected to drive investment in wind technologies, making ships more efficient and environmentally friendly.
The integration of WPS into shipping operations also enhances a ship’s Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI), Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI), and Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) ratings. As a result, the adoption of wind technology not only aligns with the industry’s decarbonization goals but also positions vessels competitively in the market. As of February 2025, over 125 WPS systems have been installed on more than 57 ships, with projections suggesting that by 2030, around 1,600 additional vessels will incorporate this technology.
Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore (BV) has developed tools to model the impact of EU and IMO regulations, revealing substantial savings for vessels utilizing WPS. For instance, an ultramax vessel operating internationally in the EU could save nearly 20% in operating costs from 2025 to 2040 when using wind assistance, compared to traditional vessels relying on Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFOe). Notably, these savings remain evident even when considering the initial capital expenditures for installing WPS technology.
Long-term Benefits and Competitive Edge
The long-term financial advantages of wind propulsion are clear. BV’s analysis indicates that by 2030, the operating costs for an ultramax vessel using a 3% biofuel blend will be nearly identical to those utilizing wind assistance, despite the latter’s initial capital costs. Both methods are projected to reduce operating expenses by approximately 12% compared to vessels powered by VLSFOe.
Looking ahead to 2040, vessels using a 10% biofuel mix could see a 54% reduction in operating costs. In contrast, vessels employing wind assistance alongside a 3% biofuel blend could achieve over a 60% reduction in costs. This data highlights the potential of wind propulsion as a cornerstone of sustainable maritime transport.
By adopting WPS technologies, vessels can significantly lower fuel consumption and emissions, aligning with stricter emission standards and contributing to the EU’s ambitious goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Bureau Veritas’s recent modeling underscores the essential role of wind propulsion in navigating the evolving regulatory landscape, marking it as a competitive long-term strategy for reducing operational costs while ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.
