Ocean Network Express (ONE) has launched a wind-assist propulsion trial in partnership with Dutch maritime wind-powered expertise firm Econowind.
The corporations are set to put in two containerized wind-assist units, referred to as VentoFoil containers, on the MV Kalamazoo. The 1,036 TEU feeder vessel operates between Pusan, Yokohama, and Honolulu, and is owned by NORSE UK and operated by Goodwood Ship Management, Singapore.
The VentoFoils, which resemble airplane wings, are designed to harness wind power, leading to a major discount in gasoline consumption and greenhouse gasoline emissions. Each VentoFoil is supplied with good suction system that optimize airflow and maximize thrust, and has the potential to generate as much as 400kW of energy, lowering gasoline consumption by 5%. They are absolutely computerized, alter for wind velocity and route, and could be began from the ship bridge.
The trial, scheduled to start in January 2024 and run for roughly six months, shall be a complete research, with ONE intently monitoring the efficiency of the VentoFoils. Data on gasoline consumption, emissions reductions, and total operational effectivity shall be collected. The outcomes of the trial shall be used to assess the long-term viability of wind propulsion as a sustainable delivery resolution.
“ONE is committed to minimizing our environmental impact and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050,” stated Hiroki Tsujii, Managing Director at ONE. “This trial with Econowind is an important step forward in our efforts to explore innovative and sustainable solutions for the maritime industry.”
