Wind Challenger ~Forward to the future, the wind at our backs ~
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd.
Corporate Marketing Division
Technology / Service Summary
The Wind Challenger uses a variable rigid sail for ship propulsion with the force of the wind. By utilizing this technology, it can significantly reduce fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
Purpose
Amid concerns over the rising costs of clean energy, which is being considered as an alternative fuel in the maritime industry, the adoption of Wind Challenger can contribute to reducing fuel consumption through the utilization of wind power. This, in turn, helps alleviate the expenses associated with sourcing alternative fuels and accelerates decarbonization in the maritime sector.
Feature
By utilizing wind energy through the utilization of a rigid sail, this endeavor aims to reduce the fossil fuel consumption of large commercial vessels and achieve a reduction in environmental impact. The sail is expandable in four sections, reaching a maximum height of approximately 53 meters.
Effect
When equipping a 100,000-ton bulk carrier with a single sail, it is estimated to achieve a reduction in GHG emissions of approximately 5% on the Japan-Australia route and approximately 8% on the Japan-North America West Coast route. Furthermore, it is also possible to install multiple rigid sails.
Controlled Substance
Applicable Regions / Countries
- Japan
- Southeast Asia
- Central/South Asia
- China/ East Asia
- Middle East
- Africa
- Oceania
- Europe
- Central/South America
- ASEAN countries
Indonesia,Cambodia,Singapore,Thailand,Philippines,Brunei Darussalam,Viet Nam,Malaysia,Myanmar,Lao PDR
Accomplishments
The "Shofu Maru," a 100,000 DWT bulk carrier primarily engaged in coal transportation from Australia, Indonesia, and North America, is being equipped with the Wind Challenger sail as a dedicated vessel for Tohoku Electric Power Company.
Related SDGs Goals
- 13. Climate Action
