Mitsubishi’s Pyxis Ocean, chartered by Cargill, is the first vessel to be retrofitted with two WindWings – large wing sails measuring up to 37.5m in height that can be fitted to the deck of cargo ships to harness the power of the wind.

The sails, which are developed by BAR Technologies, are expected to generate average fuel savings of up to 30 per cent on new build vessels. This could be even higher if used in combination with alternative fuels, Cargill said.

As wind power is not only zero emissions but is also non-depleting and hugely predictable, it offers significant efficiency gains in vessel operating costs.

On an average global route, WindWings can save 1.5 tonnes of fuel per WindWing per day – with the possibility of saving more on trans-ocean routes. This also translates into significant savings on fuel costs for ship operators.

The shipping industry, which moves approximately 90 per cent of world trade, currently contributes 2.4 per cent of annual...