Wind assisted propulsion system (WAPS) developer BAR Technologies has joined calls for the IMO to formally recognise wind propulsion as a cornerstone of its net-zero framework (NZF), ahead of the MEPC 2nd Extraordinary Session (MEPC/ES.2) in London.
Accoding to BAR, the upcoming decisions could determine whether the sector accelerates toward meaningful decarbonisation or stalls in delay and uncertainty. Technology providers, sustainability advocates, and industry coalitions are backing recognition of wind energy, as an essential component in achieving a practical and equitable pathway to net-zero emissions.
A submission to MEPC/ES.2 by the International Windship Association (IWSA) states: “Wind is free at source and the only truly zero-emission energy available at scale to the global fleet today.”
Systematic integration of wind within the NZF can enable IMO to deliver a framework that is neutral, transparent, and fair, positioning wind alongside alternative fuels and energy efficiency solutions.
The NZF has the potential to act as a global signal providing certainty to unlock finance, accelerate innovation, and scale proven technologies. But that power depends on consistent accounting across the sector. Without it, distortions in technology uptake, compliance, and funding allocation could slow the pace of progress.
Implementation of the NZF is likely to prove significant. From lifecycle assessments and compliance guidelines to pricing mechanisms and the design of the fund, the path forward demands clarity and cohesion. Some IMO member states are weighing the creation of a dedicated GHG subcommittee to manage the scale of tasks.
Therefore it is important to ensure wind propulsion is integrated from the outset, not treated as a late-stage addition.
BAR Technologies says that as discussions intensify, industry consensus is emerging around several key principles:
- Neutrality, not exceptions – wind must be recognised as a zero-carbon energy source, with full inclusion in intensity and compliance frameworks.
- Data and verification – IWSA proposes streamlined methods to capture and validate wind energy contributions through the IMO data collection system.
- Fair access to funding – wind propulsion should be proportionately rewarded within the NZF fund, supporting early fleet-scale adoption.
- Scalability and co-benefits – wind delivers fuel savings, operational resilience, and immediate emissions reductions—available for both newbuilds and retrofits.
- Maintain a global lane – a unified NZF is far more effective than fragmented national regimes, ensuring competitiveness and clarity for all actors.
Organisations across the maritime sector are working to deliver technologies that reduce emissions now, technologies that maintain vessel performance and commercial viability. Wind-assist solutions, considered to be already proven and deployable at scale, can offer a reliable and complementary path alongside emerging fuels.
John Cooper, CEO BAR Technologies, said: “As a company delivering scalable, commercially ready wind propulsion solutions such as WindWings and AeroBridge, we see every day the real-world impact these technologies can have in reducing emissions. But without consistent recognition at the regulatory level, adoption will be slower and the cost of transition higher. The IMO has a golden opportunity to show global leadership by embracing wind within the NZF. We can accelerate the path to maritime decarbonisation.”
The IWSA’s proposal could offer a clear roadmap to ensure wind’s contribution is properly accounted for, enabling faster emissions reductions at lower cost and establishing wind as a permanent partner to the fuels of tomorrow.
Image: John Cooper, CEO BAR Technologies (source: BAR)
