Union Maritime, a UK-based chemical tanker owner and operator, has announced plans to equip its fleet with cutting-edge wind propulsion technology developed by BAR Technologies. The company will be installing WindWings on a total of 34 newbuild vessels within its fleet, including 14 LR2s, 12 chemical tankers, and 8 MRs. With over 70 vessels in its fleet, including tankers, dry bulk carriers, and offshore vessels, Union Maritime has also placed orders for 35 newbuilds at various shipyards.
The innovative WindWings technology is expected to deliver significant fuel savings, with an average daily reduction of 1.5 tonnes per wing and substantial CO2 emissions reductions on typical global routes. Union Maritime is committed to exceeding the greenhouse gas reduction targets set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Their goal is to reduce absolute emissions by 20% by 2030 compared to 2008 levels and to source at least 5% of their energy needs from low- or zero-GHG sources by the same year.
In addition to wind propulsion technology, Union Maritime is also pursuing other green initiatives such as deploying dual-fuel LNG engines on up to eight LR2s and collaborating with BAR Technologies on the development of the AeroBridge® superstructure. The company is actively seeking a substantial strategic equity investment in BAR Technologies as they continue their efforts towards a more sustainable future in maritime transportation. Join the gCaptain Club for exclusive insights, curated content, insider opinions, and engaging community discussions about this topic and many others related to maritime industry news.
