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BAR Technologies Highlights Wind Power in Shipping Fuels Debate

24th March 2025
Berge Olympus, owned by Berge Bulk and charted by Vale retrofitted with four Windings®
Berge Olympus, owned by Berge Bulk and charted by Vale retrofitted with four Windings®

BAR Technologies is urging the shipping industry to consider wind as a crucial fuel source in the decarbonisation discussion. This call follows a study from UMAS and the UCL Energy Institute that points out the financing issues facing developing nations in producing e-fuels.  

John Cooper, CEO of BAR Technologies, stated, “It’s important not to overlook the most readily available energy source we have: wind.” He emphasised that while e-fuels may offer potential, their costs could hinder progress in the global shipping industry.  

The report highlights that countries in the global south may face financial barriers, despite having strong renewable resources. By 2030, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) estimates a need for $1.6 trillion to achieve zero-emission fuels.  

Cooper stressed, “We need to leverage the wind that’s already available.” He believes that wind-assisted propulsion systems, such as WindWings®, offer an efficient and economically viable solution for emissions reduction.  

BAR Technologies offers WindWings® in various sizes, designed to help vessels minimise fuel consumption and costs. This technology is inspired by cutting-edge aerospace engineering and aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.  

Having spun out of Great Britain's former America's Cup Team, BAR Technologies provides a wide range of design and engineering consultancy services across commercial ships, workboats, leisure boats, and engineered solutions

Published in Ports & Shipping
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