To meet increasingly strict international and the rising demand for CO₂-neutral transport, the maritime sector is under pressure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. One promising solution is Wind-Assisted Propulsion Systems (WAPS), which use wind energy to support ship propulsion, thereby reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
An increasing number ofevessels are arriving in Rotterdam equipped with WAPS, which the port welcomes enthusiastically. Port of Rotterdam has a long standing tradition of welcoming sailing ships, also in a more modern fashion.
A notable example is Sea-Cargo’s SC Connector, a multifunctional vessel equipped with Flettner-rotors since 2021. Siebe Kramer, General Manager at Sea-Cargo, highlights that wind is free and non-polluting. The company has seen a noticeable drop in CO₂ emissions, leading to lower ETS costs and improved competitiveness.
Types of WAPS Technologies
The suitability of the various technologies depends on the type of vessel, sailing routes and operational limitations.
- Rotorsails (Flettner Rotors): Cylindrical structures that rotate and use the Magnus effect to generate lift. They are compact and modular, making them suitable for retrofitting existing ships.
- Wing Sails: Rigid sails shaped like airplane wings, offering high aerodynamic efficiency but requiring robust construction and ample deck space.
- Suction sails and soft sails: Suction sails combine traditional sail shapes with air suction across the surface to increase lift. Soft sails, often designed with flexibility, offer a lighter solution and are easier to store when not in use.
- Kites: These autonomous kites operate at higher altitudes (100–300 meters), where winds are stronger and more consistent. Kites have minimal impact on deck space but require specific operational procedures for deployment and retrieval. These systems are particularly attractive for ships sailing long ocean routes.
Combined with alternative fuels and optimization software, wind propulsion is becoming a cornerstone of sustainable shipping. The wind—once the primary driver of maritime trade—is reclaiming its role in shaping the future of the maritime sector.
Source and image credit Port of Rotterdam
