BV approves wind propulsion for VLCC and LNG carriers

The approval follows a joint development project between Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI), TotalEnergies Gas & Power, and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), which looked at multiple WASP systems across VLCCs and an LNG carrier.

The project looked at two wing sail technologies and one rotor sail system.

“The principal conclusion of the project and the subsequent issuance of the AiP demonstrate that all of these systems are compatible with existing classification rules and regulations for VLCCs and LNG carriers, thereby paving the way for more detailed work to address specific risks that would enable detailed design and arrangement work to proceed,” said BV.

Beyond the AiP, BV is involved in multiple WASP projects and inn March 2021 released an update to its rule note for WIND PROPULSION SYSTEMS (WPS) – NR 206. The rule note builds on the existing rules to provide classification requirements for modern wind-powered ships, including free standing rigs, wing sails, kite sails, suction sails, and rotors.

The AiP was presented at Nor-Shipping in Oslo last week to representatives of HHI, TotalEnergies and MOL by Matthieu de Tugny, President of Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore.