Brands Hatch marks a significant milestone as the first newbuild tanker installation using BAR Technologies’ WindWings, paving the way for wider adoption of WindWings across the global fleet.
Using WindWings is projected to reduce the vessel’s fuel consumption by approximately 1,200 tonnes annually, equating to a reduction of over 3,800 tons of CO₂ emissions each year, providing a 30% improvement when compared with a modern 2022-built vessel of similar specification.
Union Maritime is leading the safe and effective deployment of wind-assisted propulsion to drive greater efficiency and sustainability in shipping, and this upcoming delivery marks a pivotal step in the execution of its long-term strategy.
Union Maritime’s approach includes the delivery of a fleet of 34 wind-assisted ships, of which at least 14 vessels will be fitted with WindWings. Once the rollout is complete, Union Maritime will operate the world’s largest fleet of wind-assisted vessels.
Brands Hatch will ensure full compliance with global sustainability standards through to 2030, including achieving the maximum 5% Wind Reward Factor under the FuelEU Maritime regulation, removing the need for alternative fuels.
The WindWings will be classified as a zero-GHG energy source, enhancing Brands Hatch’s Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) and supporting compliance with the newly approved IMO Greenhouse Gas Fuel Intensity (GFI) standard.
In readiness for such deliveries, Union Maritime led a collaborative effort with partners Anglo-Eastern, Synergy, Atlantas Ship Management and BAR Technologies. Project AeroPower was launched to lead the safe and seamless introduction of innovative wind propulsion systems at a worldwide scale.
Laurent Cadji, Managing Director at Union Maritime, said, “The upcoming delivery of Brands Hatch is a powerful example of how Union Maritime is responding to the evolving regulatory landscape by putting smart and sustainable technologies into action. As our first vessel with WindWings, and with many more to follow, it marks the beginning of a new era for Union Maritime and the global shipping industry as we combine our deep maritime expertise with cutting-edge innovation to drive towards a more efficient and sustainable future.”
John Cooper, CEO of BAR Technologies, said, “This collaboration with Union Maritime represents exactly the kind of industry leadership needed to drive real change. Brands Hatch isn’t just a new vessel; it’s a statement of intent. Together with our manufacturing partner, CMET, we’ve brought together world-class British design and Chinese industrial capability to deliver WindWings at commercial scale. This is wind-assisted propulsion as it should be – scalable, operational and ready to meet the toughest sustainability challenges the industry faces today.”
