Cargill and BAR Technologies develop wind propulsion for cargo ships
Cargill is partnering with BAR Technologies and Deltamarin to fit large wing sails, known as WindWings, on cargo ships to reduce CO2 emissions through wind power.
Agricultural giant Cargill has entered into a strategic partnership with maritime technology firm BAR Technologies and naval architect Deltamarin to bring wind propulsion technology to commercial shipping. The project will involve fitting BAR Technologies' "WindWings", large solid wing sails measuring up to 45 meters in height, onto the decks of cargo ships.
These sails are designed to harness wind power and are projected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by as much as 30 percent, depending on the vessel size and route. The technology originates from America's Cup yacht racing and was developed by BAR Technologies, a company founded in 2016 and led by former executives from the McLaren Formula 1 team.
Cargill states this collaboration will offer customers solutions to reduce emissions within their supply chains. "Through this partnership we will bring bespoke wind solutions to customers who are actively seeking to reduce CO2 emissions from their supply chain," said Jan Dieleman, president of Cargill’s Ocean Transportation business.
The maritime industry faces significant decarbonization targets, aiming for a 40 percent reduction in average CO2 emissions by 2030 and 70 percent by 2050 compared to 2008 levels. Cargill, which charters a fleet of over 600 vessels, views this technology as a key step in accelerating the industry's progress toward these goals.