Korean Register (KR) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI), wind -assisted propulsion system (WAPS) technology company BAR Technologies, and the Liberian International Ship & Corporate Registry (LISCR) to jointly develop a 174K LNG carrier equipped with BAR’s WindWings system.
The agreement aims to assess the technical feasibility and safety of applying WAPS technology to LNG carriers as the global shipping industry accelerates its transition toward decarbonisation. The project will focus on a 174K LNG carrier developed by HHI featuring a forward accommodation arrangement. By positioning the crew accommodation block toward the bow, the design provides additional space on the upper deck, creating an opportunity to integrate BAR Technologies’ WindWings system.
WindWings uses large, rigid wing sails installed on a vessel to harness wind as supplementary propulsion. By reducing reliance on the vessel’s main propulsion system, the technology can lower fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions while improving overall energy efficiency.
Under the collaboration, HHI will lead the vessel’s basic design and design review, while BAR Technologies will provide technical data covering the arrangement and specifications of WindWings, structural strength, operational concepts and expected fuel savings. KR, together with LISCR, will assess the safety and technical suitability of the design against applicable rules and international requirements. Based on the outcome of the assessment, KR will consider granting approval in principle (AiP), supporting the application and future commercialisation of WAPS for LNG carriers.
Hong-ryul Ryu, HHI Senior EVP and CTO, said: “We have continued to develop innovative hull forms and arrangement concepts for LNG carriers to advance environmentally friendly ship technologies. Through this project, we aim to integrate wind-assisted propulsion technology into our forward accommodation LNG carrier design, further enhancing the competitiveness of next-generation, low-emission LNG carriers.”
John Cooper, CEO, BAR Technologies, added: “We already have WindWings deployed across 10 bulkers and tankers, with 23 WindWings collectively saving approximately 100t of CO₂ per day. We look forward to extending the application of WindWings to next-generation gas carriers, establishing a robust foundation for safe commercialisation, and providing shipowners with a genuinely attractive environmental solution.”
Yongsok Lee, KR Chairman and CEO, said: “Through this joint development project, KR will assess the safety and technical suitability of applying wind-assisted propulsion to this LNG carrier design against applicable rules and international requirements, with a view to granting Approval in Principle. By working closely with the shipyard, technology provider and flag administration, KR will continue to support the safe and reliable adoption of innovative technologies that contribute to the maritime industry’s decarbonisation.”
LISCR CEO Alfonso Castillero concluded: “This JDP reflects the Liberian Registry’s proactive approach to supporting the safe and responsible advancement of innovative maritime solutions. By assessing wind-assisted propulsion for LNG carriers from an early design stage, the partners can help translate the decarbonisation challenge into practical opportunities for improved efficiency, future-ready ship designs and competitive advantage, without compromising safety or quality.”
Image: Signing of MoU between LISCR, HHI, KR and BAR Technologies (source: Korean Register)
