Emer International, a subsidiary of CM Energy Tech, has signed two contracts with tanker owner and operator Union Maritime (UML) and Jiangsu New Yangzi Shipbuilding to build two new LNG dual-fuel LR2 tankers with BAR Technology’s WindWings.
The two vessels, designed by Marine Design and Research Institute of China (MARIC), to be built at New Yangzi Shipbuilding, will each feature two WindWings, the wind propulsion technology developed by UK 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.
According to BAR, the shipping industry is continuing to respond to new emissions regulations, so 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 decarbonise with its technical expertise. The agreement reflects a growing demand for WindWings technology, with recognition of the fuel and cost savings available and the strong partnership between UML, BAR Technologies and CM Energy as catalysts to this success.
WindWings – a patented three-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 1.5t of fuel equivalent to 4.7t of CO2 per wing per day on typical global routes. Alongside the significant environmental benefits, the use of wind power and subsequent fuel savings can bring considerable economic benefits.
Laurent Cadji, MD UML 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 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, VP 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 decarbonise global shipping.”
John Cooper, CEO BAR Technologies, added: “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.”
Image: UML’s two newest dual-fuel LR2 orders will be fitted with WindWings (source: BAR Technologies)
