- IWSA urges IMO to fairly recognize wind propulsion within the Net-Zero Framework.
- Current GFI calculations undervalue wind energy despite its direct efficiency and environmental benefits.
- Wind propulsion is scalable, with 70+ ships in operation and over 100 more on order, making it a near-term decarbonization solution.
- Combining wind propulsion with AI-driven voyage optimization can significantly increase zero-emission energy use.
The International Wind Ship Association (IWSA) has called on the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to recognize wind propulsion fairly within its Net-Zero Framework. The association emphasizes that current calculations undervalue wind energy compared to fossil and alternative fuels, despite wind’s direct energy contribution and multiple environmental benefits. According to the report published by Safety4Sea, IWSA has outlined methods to correct this imbalance and ensure equitable treatment of wind-powered technologies.
Ensuring Fair Recognition of Wind Propulsion in the IMO Net-Zero Framework
Wind propulsion offers ships a highly efficient source of energy, bypassing the conversion losses associated with fossil and alternative fuels. Yet, under the current IMO Net-Zero Framework, these benefits are not fully reflected in the Greenhouse Fuel Index (GFI). IWSA highlights that proper recognition of wind propulsion is crucial, as it provides substantial co-benefits, including reductions in black carbon, particulate matter, underwater noise, and accident risks.
Over 70 wind-powered ships are already in operation, with more than 100 on order, demonstrating the technology’s readiness for near-term deployment. IWSA also stresses that integrating voyage optimization and AI-enhanced routing with wind propulsion can further amplify energy savings. To support IMO’s decarbonization targets effectively, reward mechanisms should account for deployment speed, scaling costs, co-benefits, and opportunity costs, ensuring that wind propulsion receives equitable treatment and continued investment.
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Source: Safety4Sea
