Sumitomo Corporation announced a new feasibility study to test a wind-assisted propulsion system on its bulk carrier, aiming to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
The project will use a soft sail, designed by North Sails Japan (NSJ), which is 8 meters high and 13.2 meters wide, made of advanced polyethylene fiber fabric. The sail will be mounted on the vessel's derrick post and its angle adjusted to optimize wind direction for propulsion assistance.
The soft sail is intended to serve as an auxiliary force, complementing the primary fuel source—heavy fuel oil. Sumitomo aims to cut fuel usage and emissions through this wind-powered system. The sail's operational data will be analyzed to assess its fuel-saving and CO2 reduction potential.
SHI-ME and NSJ will design the system and analyze performance data, while ORIX will handle the sail's installation and monitor fuel efficiency during operation. The data will help calculate energy savings, offering theoretical values of fuel efficiency improvements.
The study also supports broader decarbonization efforts in the maritime industry. In September 2024, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) was urged to revise its Carbon Index Indicator (CII) and introduce measures like wind propulsion to meet decarbonization targets.
