Berge Bulk, BAR Technologies, and Yara Marine Technologies have reached an agreement to install four BAR Tech WindWings by Yara Marine Technologies (WindWings) on board the 109,716gt bulk carrier Berge Olympus, which was built in 2018.
“This partnership with BAR Tech and Yara Marine is a great step towards our transition to zero-emissions operations. Preserving our planet’s resources is fundamental to Berge Bulk’s sustainability vision and goals,” says James Marshall, CEO of Berge Bulk.
“At Berge Bulk, we believe in the results that can be achieved by harnessing wind power. Evaluating this groundbreaking technology, the estimated impact on reducing emissions can be at least as significant as transitional fuels.
“We look forward to continuing our collaboration with BAR Tech and Yara Marine to install the first WindWings on board Berge Olympus and for the optimisation needed when deploying such innovative technologies.”
This contract strengthens Berge Bulk’s commitment to pioneering the shipping industry’s decarbonisation journey. They will be an early adopter of wind-assisted propulsion technology, evaluating a pivotal technology to reduce the emissions of their bulker fleet.
“Wind has been the most evident ship propulsion for centuries. We are excited that industry-leading companies like Berge Bulk have the vision and commitment to equip their vessels with wind-assisted propulsion technologies.
“At Yara Marine, we are delighted to strengthen our partnership with Berge Bulk and proud to enable the large-scale installations for WindWings, bringing back emissions-free wind power to shipping,” added Marshall.
The large, solid wing sails on board these bulkers will measure up to 50m in height and will be capable of reducing CO2 emissions by as much as 30 per cent through a combination of wind propulsion and route optimisation. By doing so, Berge Bulk aims to take a major step in assisting the broader industry in achieving its emissions targets for 2050.