Emer International Limited, a subsidiary of CM Energy Tech Co., Ltd (CM Energy), has signed two contracts with Union Maritime Limited (UML), a leading tanker owner and operator, and Jiangsu New Yangzi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd, to build two new LNG dual-fuel LR2 tankers with WindWings®. The two vessels, designed by Marine Design & Research Institute of China (MARIC) will be built at Jiangsu New Yangzi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. (New Yangzi Shipbuilding) will each feature two WindWings®, a pioneering wind propulsion technology developed by UK innovative simulation-driven marine engineering consultancy BAR Technologies. The two shipsets of WindWings®, are scheduled to be delivered by CM Energy in the second and third quarters of 2025, respectively.
As the shipping industry continues to respond to new emissions regulations, the demand for wind-assisted propulsion technology has become more prominent. With completion scheduled for 2025, New Yangzi Shipbuilding is willing to bring these vessels to market and support the industry to decarbonize with its vast technical expertise.
This agreement reflects the growing demand for WindWings® technology, with recognition of the clear fuel and cost savings available and the strong partnership between UML, BAR Technologies and CM Energy as catalysts to this success.
WindWings® – a patented 3 element rigid wing that automatically adjusts its shape to suit the wind conditions – have demonstrated their effectiveness in reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, with average savings of 1.5 tonnes of fuel and 4.7 tonnes of CO2 per wing per day on typical global routes. Alongside the significant environmental benefits, the use of wind power and subsequent fuel savings will also bring considerable economic benefits.
Laurent Cadji, Managing Director Union Maritime Ltd, the shipowner and operator, said:
“In light of our recent partnership announcement with BAR Technologies, we are thrilled to be collaborating with them and CM Energy to deploy cutting-edge wind technology across our fleet. Having demonstrated significant efficiency gains and on vessels already equipped with WindWings®, we look forward to the successful installation and operation of WindWings® on our newly built LR2s at New Yangzi Shipbuilding.”
Zhan Huafeng, Executive Director and Executive President of CM Energy said “Shipping continues to undergo a significant transformation and we recognise the important role that WindWings® plays in realising the IMO’s targets. We are dedicated to the decarbonisation of the energy sector and our latest contracts with UML, New Yangzi Shipbuilding and BAR Technologies epitomise this commitment.”
Zhu Jianzhang, Vice President of MARIC, said: “We are delighted that Union Maritime Ltd have selected our new generation design LR2s with WindWings®. The collaboration between the owner, designer, builder and innovative WAPS technology provider is a fine example of how we must come together to decarbonize global shipping.”
Speaking on the signing of the contracts, John Cooper, Chief Executive Officer, BAR Technologies, commented: “We are excited to work with UML ,CM Energy, New Yangzi Shipbuilding and Maric on this joint venture which marks another milestone for the shipping industry in realising the benefits of harnessing wind energy through technology such as WindWings®. We are proud to be working alongside UML and CM Energy, who bring an impressive calibre of expertise and experience to ensure our WindWings® are delivered to the highest standards.”
Source: Hellenic Shipping News
