Samsung Heavy wins certification for wind-powered LNG carrier

LNG carrier equipped with wind-assisted propulsion technology developed by Samsung Heavy Industries. (Samsung Heavy Industries)

Samsung Heavy Industries announced on Wednesday that it received basic design certification for an LNG carrier equipped with its wind-assisted propulsion system, the “wing sail.” The wing sail, a ship structure resembling an anchor, generates lift through pressure differences between the upper and lower parts of the sail to provide eco-friendly auxiliary propulsion.

The LNG carrier, certified by the Korean Register and the Liberian Registry, features the wing sail to improve propulsion efficiency using wind power. By placing the wheelhouse at the bow, the vessel also solves a navigational visibility issue that has been a problem for ships with wind-assisted propulsion, the company said.

Samsung Heavy Industries expects that combining the wing sail with its proprietary air lubrication system, the Saver Wind, will enhance fuel efficiency and significantly reduce carbon emissions. The system reduces air resistance while harnessing wind power as a driving force.

According to the United Kingdom’s Clean Maritime Plan, the global market for wind propulsion technologies is projected to grow to 3.5 trillion won ($2.5 billion) by 2050. Samsung Heavy Industries plans to expand the application of wind propulsion technology to eco-friendly ships, including ammonia and carbon dioxide carriers.