Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) and Chevron Shipping Company LLC are taking a bold step towards greener shipping by announcing the installation of the Wind Challenger, a wind-assisted ship propulsion system, on a new LNG carrier. The system, developed in collaboration with Oshima Shipbuilding, is set to make waves in the maritime industry as it marks the world’s first LNG carrier equipped with such technology. This vessel, under a long-term charter from MOL Encean Pte. Ltd. to Chevron Asia Pacific Shipping Pte. Ltd., is scheduled for delivery in 2026 from Hanwha Ocean Co., Ltd.’s Geoje Shipyard in South Korea.
This breakthrough reflects the growing commitment within the maritime sector to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and fuel consumption. With the Wind Challenger’s innovative telescopic sails, the vessel will harness wind power to support its primary engine, leading to a significant reduction in fuel use. For an industry often challenged by its carbon footprint, this move sets a new standard for LNG shipping and emphasizes the potential of wind-assisted technologies in modern maritime logistics.
MOL received an Approval in Principle (AiP) from Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK) in August 2024, a significant step for the first-ever LNG carrier featuring wind-assisted propulsion. This approval indicates that the Wind Challenger system meets stringent safety and operational standards, paving the way for its deployment. The system’s design includes a fully enclosed navigation bridge and a lookout station on the foredeck, enhancing the safety and visibility of operations at sea.
The Wind Challenger is strategically positioned to minimize impact on the existing design of membrane-type LNG carriers. It ensures that the vessel’s mooring arrangement remains unchanged, which is crucial for maintaining compatibility with port facilities. This careful planning highlights the practicality of integrating new technology into existing shipping operations without significant disruptions.
Barbara Pickering, President of Chevron Shipping Company, expressed her enthusiasm for the project: “We’re proud to partner with MOL in Wind Challenger’s industry-first LNG installation. This is another example of using novel approaches in hard-to-abate sectors to reduce carbon intensity in our LNG fleet.” Her statement underscores the importance of innovative solutions in achieving sustainability goals within the shipping industry.
MOL President and CEO, Takeshi Hashimoto, echoed these sentiments: “With the understanding and cooperation of Chevron, we are delighted to extend the Wind Challenger Project to LNG carriers in addition to the two delivered Wind Challenger-equipped bulkers and other ongoing projects. Achieving GHG reduction in the maritime transport of LNG, which is increasingly in demand worldwide as a transition fuel, is a very important mission for us.”
The Wind Challenger technology will be showcased at the Gastech Exhibition & Conference 2024 in Houston from September 17-20. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the technology’s application to LNG carriers and other vessels, signaling a new era of environmentally friendly maritime operations.
As the shipping industry faces increasing pressure to decarbonize, the collaboration between MOL and Chevron represents a significant leap forward. By combining cutting-edge technology with practical applications, they are setting a course for a more sustainable future in maritime logistics.
