Berge Bulk, a prominent player in the global dry bulk shipping industry, is introducing its Newcastlemax bulker, Berge Olympus, outfitted with four retrofitted BARTech WindWings developed by Yara Marine Technologies. This WindWings installation is a pivotal step in Berge Bulk’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2025 and positions the Berge Olympus as the most powerful sailing cargo vessel worldwide.
With the incorporation of four WindWings, each boasting an aerodynamic span of 37.5 meters in height and 20 meters in width, the Berge Olympus is poised to make substantial fuel savings of 6 tonnes per day on standard global routes, translating into a remarkable reduction of approximately 19.5 tonnes of daily CO2 emissions. Capitalizing on these fuel economies and environmental benefits, Berge Bulk is actively exploring the possibility of integrating WindWings into more of its vessels navigating routes with favourable wind conditions.
Berge Bulk’s WindWings initiative underscores its dedication to spearheading a zero-carbon future while enhancing vessel efficiency. This undertaking aligns with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) fresh objectives, including achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping by 2050, with interim targets for 2030 and 2040. Berge Bulk’s WindWings project is a significant contribution to the mission of environmental sustainability and technological progress.
In addition to WindWings installation, the Berge Olympus has been equipped with a shaft generator system driven by the main engine to supply electric power to the vessel, thus reducing fuel consumption and emissions. This 1MW capacity system eliminates the need for auxiliary engines during sea voyages. The inclusion of this technology is groundbreaking and concludes a comprehensive program that witnessed several vessels being retrofitted with this cutting-edge system.
In alignment with global decarbonization efforts, Berge Bulk is blazing a trail towards carbon neutrality by 2025 through safe, efficient, and sustainable shipping practices. To achieve this milestone, Berge Bulk has formulated a four-pillar decarbonization plan termed the “Marshall Plan,” focusing on enhancing fleet efficiency, harnessing the latest maritime technologies, piloting new fuels, and investing in carbon capture.
Key Information:
- Berge Olympus, a bulk carrier ship, now features four WindWings, an innovative technology that harnesses wind power to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
- Berge Olympus will operate between Brazil and China, a trade route renowned for its favourable wind conditions.
- WindWings are sizable, rigid sails that can be adjusted to optimize the ship’s aerodynamic performance.
- Each of the four WindWings measures 20 meters in width and 37.5 meters in height, taller than a ten-story building.
- The total surface area of all four wings amounts to 3,000 square meters, more than three times the surface area of an A380 airplane’s wings (843 square meters).
- WindWings have the potential to save up to 20% of fuel, reducing daily CO2 emissions by 19.5 tonnes on average global routes.
- WindWing technology aligns with the industry’s mission to reduce the carbon intensity of international shipping by at least 20% by 2030 and 70% by 2040, as per new IMO regulations.
- WindWings are anticipated to achieve double-digit percentage reductions in both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
Berge Bulk, a leading independent dry bulk owner, boasts a stellar reputation for reliable, safe, and efficient commodity deliveries across the globe. Starting with just 12 vessels in 2007, the company now possesses, operates, and manages a fleet of 85 vessels, known for their safety and fuel efficiency, amounting to 14 million deadweight tons (DWT).
