German container shipping company Hapag-Lloyd is eyeing a potential 4,500 TEU newbuilding vessel with wind-assisted propulsion as part of the company’s R&D activities involving alternative technologies and fuels, says an article published on offshore energy website.
Concept Study With Team Malizia
Hapag-Lloyd is conducting research and development activities, partnering with Boris Herrmann and Team Malizia, to explore the feasibility of a 4,500 TEU container ship with wind-assisted propulsion.
Realistic Designs And Ongoing Simulations
The company aims to create more realistic wind-powered container ship designs compared to futuristic concepts. Computer simulations are ongoing to study the ship’s behavior under various conditions, energy savings with sail support, and potential weather-based route optimization.
Sail System Design
The current design envisions eight sails with a total area of 3,000 square meters, featuring extendable rear sails and retractable front ones to facilitate port operations and avoid limitations. The sail system is intended to assist propulsion, particularly at slower speeds and favorable wind conditions.
Collaboration And Future Routes
Hapag-Lloyd is engaging in discussions with companies like Cargill to exchange ideas on wind-assisted propulsion. The company is studying historical weather data for the Conosur service, sailing around South America, and exploring other routes to maximize the benefits of the sail system.
Challenges And Sustainability Goals
Besides wind-assisted propulsion, Hapag-Lloyd is researching various alternative fuels as part of its efforts to achieve net-zero emissions by 2045. Challenges include fuel availability, and the company emphasizes the importance of energy efficiency and alternative technologies in achieving short- and medium-term sustainability goals.
Educating And Demystifying Wind Propulsion
Hapag-Lloyd aims to demystify wind propulsion by educating stakeholders about cost savings, technology viability, operational impacts, crew training, and regulatory considerations. The company underscores the need for factual information to replace gut feelings.
Cost-Effectiveness And Space Challenges
The ultimat decision to adopt a sail system depends on cost-effectiveness, considering factors like system acquisition and maintenance costs versus fuel savings. Challenges include the physical space needed on board, potentially requiring longer ships and addressing energy requirements for propulsion.
Long-Term Vision For Sustainable Shipping
Hapag-Lloyd envisions a future where ships are propelled by fuels produced using electricity from renewable sources, such as wind energy.
The company acknowledges the need for extensive facilities and processing steps in fuel production and usage, emphasizing the role of a sail system in directly harnessing wind energy and saving fuel.
Striving For Environmental Goals
The main goal is to achieve sustainability targets, with every tonne of CO2 saved contributing to environmental preservation. Hapag-Lloyd acknowledges the need for continuous research and development to overcome challenges and transition toward more sustainable shipping practices.
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Source: Offshore energy
