In the wake of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) 83rd session, which concluded with a narrow majority approval of the draft “IMO Net-Zero Framework,” BAR Technologies underscores the immediate viability and environmental benefits of Wind-Assisted Propulsion Systems (WAPS), particularly its WindWings^® technology, for the maritime sector.?

The MEPC 83 session, held in London from 7 to 11 April 2025, focused on strategies to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from ships, including discussions on mid-term measures such as a goal-based marine fuel standard and an economic pricing mechanism for maritime emissions. The IMO member states have voted in favour of a compromise two-tiered GHG intensity reduction plan after a week of negotiations failed to reach a consensus on a flat-rate levy. The MEPC has approved a compromise draft for Chapter 5 of the MARPOL Annex VI convention. The approved draft introduces a two-tiered greenhouse gas (GHG) fuel standard that will require ships to progressively reduce their well-to-wake GHG fuel intensity (GFI) from 2028 onwards. The targets are benchmarked against 2008 levels, set at 93.30 grams of CO2-equivalent per megajoule (gCO2e/MJ). GFI reduction targets will tighten over time, ranging from 4–17% in 2028 to 30–43% by 2035. The MEPC plans to review and further tighten targets for 2036–2040 during its 2032 session.?

However, the session was marked by significant discord. The United States withdrew from the negotiations before they commenced, citing concerns over the economic impacts and fairness of the proposed carbon levy, introducing uncertainty into the global regulatory landscape. Additionally, a coalition of countries, including China, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa, advocated for a credit trading system as an alternative to a flat carbon tax.?

Amidst this backdrop, BAR Technologies emphasises that wind propulsion is a solution that can be implemented immediately without the need for prolonged discussions, committee meetings or waiting until 2032. Wind propulsion is a ‘no-brainer’ solution that significantly reduces emissions while offering economic returns. The maritime sector is already progressing, with wind technology installations and optimised primary wind newbuilds doubling this year to over 100 ships and over 5 million dwt of shipping equipped with some form of wind propulsion. Yet, the potential for accelerated adoption remains significant. Now is the time to harness this momentum by embracing wind propulsion. The industry can achieve immediate emissions reductions and realise substantial economic benefits. The opportunity is here and now to act decisively to propel maritime sustainability forward.?

Furthermore, effective 1 May 2025, the Mediterranean Sea will become the fifth area worldwide recognised as an Emission Control Area (ECA) for sulphur oxides (SOx) under MARPOL Annex VI Regulation 14. This regulation mandates that vessels operating in the Mediterranean Sea use fuel with a sulphur content not exceeding 0.10%, a significant reduction from the previous limit of 0.50%. WAPS, including WindWings^®, can play a pivotal role in helping vessels meet these stringent requirements by reducing overall fuel consumption and associated emissions.?

John Cooper, CEO of BAR Technologies, stated, “The maritime industry requires solutions that are both effective and economically viable. Wind propulsion technologies like our WindWings^® system offer immediate emissions reductions without the need for extensive infrastructure changes or reliance on unproven fuels.”?

BAR Technologies’ WindWings^® system stands at the forefront of Wind-Assisted Propulsion Systems, featuring a patented three-element wing design that delivers 2.5 times more lift than traditional single-element configurations. This advanced design provides greater thrust and adaptability, enabling consistent performance across global trade routes. By harnessing wind as a free, zero-emission energy source, WindWings^® offers ship operators a practical and immediate pathway to reduce fossil fuel dependency, thereby decreasing exposure to carbon levies while enhancing operational resilience.?

The three-element wing design is a result of meticulous engineering inspired by aeronautical principles. Each wing comprises three adjustable elements that can modify their camber and angle of attack to optimise performance based on wind conditions. This configuration allows for automatic adaptation to varying wind speeds and directions, ensuring maximum efficiency and thrust. Unlike some wind propulsion systems that depend on energy-intensive components such as suction fans or continuously spinning mechanisms, WindWings^® operate without these features. Instead, they utilise electric power solely for adjustments, significantly reducing the system’s overall energy consumption and simplifying maintenance.?

In practical terms, each WindWing^® can save approximately 1.5 tonnes of fuel and reduce CO2 emissions by 4.7 tonnes per day on average global shipping routes. The system’s scalability is demonstrated by the recent introduction of its 20m and 24m WindWings^® models, making the WAPS accessible to a broader range of vessels, including handysize bulkers and chemical tankers, further expanding their impact on the industry’s carbon footprint.?