05 September 2025
Consistent treatment of wind propulsion in the IMO Net-Zero Framework - ISWG-GHG 20/2/17 Submitted by IWSA (05 September 2025) DEVELOPMENT OF NEW AND/OR REVISION OF EXISTING GUIDELINES, PROVISIONS, GUIDANCE AND OTHER DOCUMENTS, AS APPROPRIATE, FOR SUPPORTING THE UNIFORM AND EFFECTIVE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE IMO NET-ZERO FRAMEWORK Executive summary: This document aims to help clarify the key elements of the IMO Net-Zero Framework as it pertains to direct wind propulsion energy in an effort to align those provisions with the core technology and energy pathway neutrality principles that are at the heart of IMO deliberations. To ensure consistent treatment of wind propulsion, the substantial losses sustained through the use of fuel oil/alternative fuel energy pathways should be considered in the attained GFI calculations so as to avoid overvaluing these energy sources within the formula and subsequently undervaluing the wind component. An approach to address this issue has been outlined in document MEPC 82/7/9 (ISWA). This submission also brings forward a series of pertinent issues relating to the same level-playing field principle to be considered when assessing and applying criteria for the issuance of IMO Net-Zero Fund reward allocations and the inclusive and balanced treatment of all energy sources based on their direct and indirect decarbonisation impact, co-benefits and other merits.
12 January 2024
This document presents the IWSA wind propulsion white paper compiled in the light of the recently adopted 2023 IMO strategy on reduction of GHG emissions from ships and the work underway on mid-term measures. The white paper delivers a detailed baseline assessment of wind propulsion technology (WPT) systems and outlines pathways underway for the dissemination and scaling of this technology segment. The content builds on the summary document MEPC 79/INF.21 (Comoros et al.) giving additional technology and policy context and a detailed macro and micro economic analysis of the benefits of following a wind-hybrid decarbonization pathway. These are supplemented by an updated market analysis and case studies covering numerous wind propulsion solutions. The report also delivers results from an IWSA initiated survey of industry stakeholder perspectives relating to wind propulsion uptake along with a detailed summary of barriers and drivers in the industry which help to inform the regulatory gap analysis and recommendations for further action. Submitted by Comoros, France, Solomon Islands and IWSA
7 October 2022
This document considers several areas relevant to the characterization of the current state of technology and development of Wind Propulsion Technologies (WPTs) for ships. The role of such technologies is presented in the wider context of decarbonization in shipping enabling the sector to go 'beyond compliance' and future-proof ships. In addition to technological aspects, the document includes references to several projects highlighted as case studies. Market forecasts, policy/regulatory development, technical studies and standardization/class developments are also included as part of a developing framework where wind propulsion takes shape as a technically reliable and mature technology option Submitted to MEPC 79 at International Maritime Organisation (IMO) by IWSA in partnership with Finland, France, Saudi Arabia, Solomon Islands, Spain, Union of Comoros, and Royal Institution of Naval Architects (RINA),
