ISWG-GHG 21-INF.2 - Work programme developed to confirm robustness and reliability of methods proposed for calculating wind propulsion in the attained GFI calculation This document has been submitted by IWSA for the Intersessional Working Group held in April 2026, ahead of the MEPC 84 session. This document presents the work programme developed by wind propulsion experts to further refine, update and validate the robustness and reliability of the methods proposed in documents MEPC 82/7/9, MEPC 83/7/33 and MEPC 83/INF.33 by IWSA. These methods quantify the share of energy provided by the direct use of wind propulsion technologies onboard vessels, with the purpose of integrating these methods into the calculation of the GHG Fuel Intensity (GFI). Its purpose is to keep the maritime community and Member States updated on the current maturity of these methods and on the progress on delivering available case studies in order to reaffirm and demonstrate the efficacy of these methods. ISWG-GHG 21-INF.2 - Work programme developed to confirm robustness and reliability of methods proposed for cal... (IWSA)
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
This document highlights and questions a series of baseline assumptions and considerations which will underpin sections of the proposed Fifth IMO GHG Study’s terms of reference (TOR) as discussed during ISWG-GHG 17 and in reference to document MEPC 83/7/2 (Secretariat) on the revision of the Secretariat’s preliminary analysis and proposed TOR. Careful consideration of the holistic approach to energy provision, technology readiness levels, emission profiles, emission forecasting and comparative analysis of energy solutions is crucial to ensure fair transition pathways. Furthermore, ensuring the use of the best possible available science, data and methodologies to guarantee valid outcomes is increasingly important as new technologies and previously little-researched energy sources are now becoming more mainstream. This submission is not a definitive appraisal based on wind propulsion energy provision but instead uses wind propulsion as an example of how these assumptions and approaches can severely impact the assessment of one particular technology basket, which will be applicable to other low and zero-emission energy sources, technologies and operational approaches.
September 2024
Wind propulsion for ships offers significant possibilities for reduction of harmful emissions. This guideline aims at establishing a consistent terminology for evaluating the performance of wind propulsion during the design phase. Objective: The guideline focuses on methodologies for predicting the power savings achieved by wind-powered vessels along specific routes during the design stage. It compares these savings to corresponding ships that do not utilize wind propulsion. Method Overview: The guideline provides an overview of suitable methods for different stages of the design process, balancing confidence levels and computational costs. By linking standard indicators to prediction procedures of varying confidence levels, the guideline aims to build a shared understanding among all stakeholders. Target Audience: Organizations engaged in performance predictions for wind-powered ships (such as consultants, shipyards, and technology providers) will find this guideline valuable. Additionally,stakeholders involved in discussions about performance indicators—such as ship owners, operators and investors—can indirectly benefit from its standardised terminology. Scope: While primarily applicable to cargo vessels equipped with wind assistance technology, the guideline can also be partially adapted for vessels relying primarily on wind propulsion. However, it explicitly excludes sailing yachts, racing boats, and traditional sailing vessels.
Sea trials for assessing the power saving from wind assisted propulsion The purpose of this procedure is to provide a short-term method for verification of the power saving due to a Wind Propulsion Technology (WPT) installation. The minimum test program can be conducted within one day and includes around 5 wind conditions. The scope can be extended to include a larger number of conditions, and be conducted over a longer period of time during operation.
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),
