UK company BAR Technologies has been involved in expansion plans reinforcing its commitment to delivering innovative solutions for a more sustainable future.
The expansion follows what the company describes as a dramatic increase in enquiries in 2024, reflecting a remarkable growth in global demand for its technologies.
BAR Technologies’ portfolio of products across the maritime sector includes the WindWings wind-assisted propulsion system (WAPS), Aerobridge superstructures to minimise drag, hull optimisation for commercial ships and foiling technologies with electric and hybrid drive systems for decarbonising smaller vessels.
Sales agents in China, Japan, Greece and Spain have driven this interest, with Asia emerging as a key market. Forecasts show a substantial year-on-year increase in enquiries from these regions.
BAR Technologies CEO John Cooper said: “We are committed to improving the sustainability of the marine industry through innovative technological development. It has been inspiring to witness the shift in attitudes as the global focus has sharpened on decarbonisation. BAR Technologies’ innovative solutions, such as WindWings, directly address the urgent need for solutions that reduce emissions and align with regulations such as FuelEU Maritime, the EU Emissions Trading System and other global carbon taxes. These policies highlight the increasing demand for efficient, eco-friendly products that meet compliance requirements and drive operational cost savings for our clients.”
Following testing during 2024, WindWings saw energy consumption on the main engine of the Pyxis Ocean, a Kamsarmax bulk carrier, reduced by 32% per nautical mile in favourable conditions when independently assessed by DNV Maritime.
Credibility gained from this independent DNV Maritime validation is considered a key factor in the rapid growth at BAR Technologies with five WindWings ships currently under construction and many more in the pipeline.
BAR Technologies invested heavily in expanding its workforce through 2024. This has included the addition of 20 new hires, including a new Sales and Marketing team, four Naval Architects and 13 Engineers.
Cooper said: “The growing emphasis on sustainability has brought about a demand for skills in advanced engineering, performance simulation composite design, and software innovation, areas where BAR has strategically invested to stay at the forefront of this evolution. This combination of industry-leading products and a highly skilled workforce, positions us to lead the charge in tackling the decarbonisation challenge, offering confidence and value to our partners and stakeholders as we navigate a rapidly changing sector.”
A major milestone in 2024 was the expansion of BAR Technologies’ partnerships, including Mitsubishi Corporation in Japan. It collaborates with agencies and partners worldwide, including CM Energy Tech (China), Abacus (Greece), and WindWaves (Spain).
As the industry adapts to regulations like FuelEU Maritime, the EU Emissions Trading System, and other global carbon taxes, BAR Technologies considers it is well-positioned to lead the charge, being poised to redefine the future of sustainable maritime operations.
Image: Some of the strengthened team at BAR Technologies (Source: BAR)
