Everllence, ABB and OceanWings Chart a New Course for LNG Carrier Propulsion

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At GasTech 2025 in Milan, Everllence signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ABB, the technology company known for electrification and automation, and OceanWings, a leader in wind-assisted propulsion systems.

The agreement focuses on developing an optimized propulsion concept for future LNG carriers by combining Everllence and ABB’s existing DFE+ (Diesel-Electric with variable speed) system with OceanWings’ rigid wingsail technology.

The DFE+ concept has already drawn attention for enabling high engine efficiency even at partial loads, while offering flexibility through multiple engines. It also leaves room for integrating sustainable energy sources such as batteries and fuel cells.

As regulatory pressure on emissions continues to mount, the addition of wind-assisted propulsion systems (WAPS) could significantly strengthen the efficiency profile of LNG carriers. The partners aim to show that wind power and advanced diesel-electric systems are not competing technologies but complementary ones.

OceanWings brings proven technology into the mix. Its rigid wingsails use Adaptive Trimming, a system that continuously adjusts sail position to account for a vessel’s aerodynamic profile and prevailing wind conditions.

“LNG carriers sail fast and spend typically 70% of their time at sea. This is ideal for harnessing wind and the full potential of OceanWings rigid wingsails,” said Romain Grandsart, COO of OceanWings. “Combined with a DFE+ highly efficient variable-speed concept engine, this unlocks high double-digit fuel savings and greenhouse-gas emissions reduction.”

The math here is simple: a ship that spends most of its time on long sea passages is a prime candidate for wind-assisted propulsion. If wingsails can reduce fuel consumption by even 20–30%, the impact on operating costs and emissions could be dramatic.

ABB sees its role as the enabler of hybrid electrical propulsion that can accommodate the fluctuating input from wind.

“We at ABB believe that the flexibility of our hybrid electrical propulsion system is a good match with the variable power contribution from the wind,” said Rune Lysebo, Head of Strategic Market Development at ABB’s Marine and Ports division. “By utilising ABB’s advanced power and energy solution, we are able to optimise the operational efficiency of the vessel.”

Anyone who has sailed knows the wind doesn’t blow steady at all times. The challenge is making sure ships can seamlessly balance between mechanical and wind power, avoiding waste or sudden drops in efficiency. ABB’s energy management systems aim to provide that buffer.

For Everllence, the DFE+ propulsion design addresses the fluctuating demand that comes with relying on wind power.

“While WAPS introduces highly variable propulsion demand due to fluctuating wind conditions, DFE+ propulsion offers precise load control and operational flexibility,” explained Dominik Thoma, Global Manager LNG Cargo at Everllence. “In combination with smart power-management systems and adaptive trimming, we see significant potential for reduced emissions and OPEX.”

Here’s the analogy: think of wind as renewable income that can spike or dip without warning. You need a savings account to smooth things out. DFE+ acts as that stabilizer, keeping operations efficient regardless of conditions.

The initial scope of the collaboration is to develop a concept for LNG carriers. But the partners see opportunities beyond LNG, particularly in cargo vessels with long-distance routes, sufficient deck space for wingsails, and high flexibility in propulsion requirements.

Lowering both OPEX and CAPEX for future ship designs is part of the ambition, with the promise of scalable solutions that could eventually reach across different vessel types.

^{Source:Everllence}