President-elect Donald Trump’s ties to the US oil industry raised hopes for corporate support, but the oil sector might face challenges ahead. The global push for decarbonization continues to grow, with industries like shipping increasingly turning to renewable energy sources, including wind power.
Wind Power Returns to the Seas
A key example of this shift is the AirWing rigid sail, developed by UK startup GT Wings. Unlike traditional cloth sails, AirWing is a wind-driven propulsion system shaped as a tall, segmented column. According to GT Wings, ships outfitted with AirWings could save up to 30% in fuel consumption, depending on the route and other conditions.
While the AirWing is still in its prototype phase, the company plans its first major test in March. GT Wings founder George Thompson anticipates that around 40,000 ships—half of the global fleet—could eventually be retrofitted with this technology. The company has refined the sail’s aerodynamics with input from the Formula 1 racing circuit, ensuring its compact design maximizes space for cargo operations. This efficiency also makes it viable for new ships, not just retrofits.
GT Wings has teamed up with composite manufacturer A2OM to create the materials for the AirWing, further strengthening its potential.
A Bold Step by UK Shipping Firm
As the shipping industry faces mounting pressure to reduce its carbon footprint, Carisbrooke Shipping in the UK is making a bold move. Partnering with GT Wings and the University of Bristol, Carisbrooke is set to install a 20-meter AirWing on one of its vessels, thanks to a £3.7 million grant from the UK Department for Transport. This initiative marks a significant step toward more sustainable maritime practices.
Though Carisbrooke operates a smaller fleet of 27 ships, the company is determined to lead the charge in adopting wind energy for commercial shipping. Their partnership with the University of Bristol further bolsters the credibility of the AirWing project.
Innovative Wind Harvesting Technologies
The AirWing is not the only wind energy solution for the shipping industry. Finnish company Norsepower has developed Rotor Sails, which use the Magnus effect to generate thrust. The technology involves long tubes with spinning rotors inside, creating pressure differences that propel the ship forward.
Norsepower has already launched its Rotor Sails and formed a partnership with Norwegian shipping company Berge Rederi to test their performance in the Northern Sea, a region known for its strong winds. Two newly built cargo vessels, outfitted with these sails, will be launched by the end of this year. The ships will also feature hybrid-electric capabilities, using batteries and shaft generators for short distances.
Room for Traditional Sails
The trend toward wind-powered shipping extends beyond modern technologies. French startup VELA is developing sail-powered trimarans that can cross the Atlantic in 10-15 days, similar to conventional ships. Their lightweight design, using pallets instead of heavy containers, will also reduce emissions and shipping costs.
VELA’s vessels will be equipped with solar panels and hydro-generators to power auxiliary systems, with diesel-electric equipment providing backup. The company’s first trimaran is under construction in Australia, marking the beginning of a new chapter in sustainable shipping.
Conclusion
The push for decarbonizing the shipping industry is gaining momentum as companies explore wind energy solutions. From the AirWing sail to traditional sails and hybrid-electric systems, innovations in maritime energy could significantly reduce the reliance on polluting bunker fuels, offering a greener future for global shipping.
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