Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL) has obtained approval in principle (AiP) from classification society Lloyd’s Register (LR) for two new different designs of a membrane-type LNG carrier equipped with four units of Wind Challenger, a hard sail wind assisted propulsion system.
In addition, safety evaluations were conducted in collaboration with the respective flag states. As a result, the new vessel designs, one jointly developed with HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) has earned AiP from the Marshall Islands and the other vessel design jointly developed with Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) AiP from Liberia.
The AiP covers a new vessel design, for a 174,000m3 LNG carrier, jointly developed by HHI and SHI. Each version of the design will be equipped with four Wind Challenger units. Detailed design work for actual construction is currently underway. In 2024, MOL obtained AiP to install two Wind Challenger units on a conventional LNG carrier. In the new vessel design, the bridge has been positioned toward the bow to enable both an increase in the number of Wind Challenger units and the optimisation of their placement, thereby maximising fuel efficiency gains. Based on preliminary calculations, fuel saving is expected to reach up to 30% per voyage with an average annual saving of 15-20%.
For the new vessel designs developed with HHI and SHI, MOL conducted comprehensive risk assessments in collaboration with the shipyards, the classification society, and flag states. These assessments covered the sail arrangement, visibility impact, emergency operation procedures, and other safety measures. Based on the results, the AiP was successfully obtained.
Wind Challenger, a rigid sail system capable of automatic extension, retraction, and rotation, is a key low- and zero-emission technologies supporting MOL’s future vision. By harnessing wind power while maintaining safe navigation, the system contributes to a reduction in fuel consumption and GHG emissions. MOL plans to install Wind Challengers on 25 vessels by 2030 and on 80 vessels by 2035. To date, two vessels have been delivered, and installation has been confirmed for an additional nine vessels.
Image: Rendering of the new ship design featuring four Wind Challenger units (source: MOL)
