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Source: Lloyds Register

The quest for alternative, low-emission fuels continues unabated with Lloyd’s Register (LR) at the helm of the research and development. In the past few months, LR has been involved with three major schemes into using wind power as a viable source of energy for ships.

LR has linked up with such key players as Zodiac, Totempower, Greenwave, Magnuss and B9 Shipping, to find commercially viable ways to repeat history and use sail as an economical and emission-free method of powering modern vessels.

Trials and tests have been carried out at university and research laboratories using simulated models and CFD data. One of these techniques, known as the Magnuss VOSS™, consists of a rotating cylindrical metal column installed on a ship's deck which converts wind into the forward thrust needed to propel a vessel.

Lofty energy prices, rising charter costs and new emissions regulations are forcing shipowners to consider a range of alternatives and many technologists believe sail power could save up to 50% of fuel costs on particularly windy trade routes.

"Sailing hybrids offer significant operational advantages over conventional ships," said Diane Gilpin, Director of B9 Shipping.

Image: SkySails wind propulsion technology.