- SHI received an AIP for its LNG carrier equipped with an auxiliary propulsion system named `Wind Sail`.

· SHI enhanced fuel efficiency while reducing carbon emissions by adapting wind-assisted propulsion device.

- SHI is actively preparing for the future of wind propulsion system market which is projected to grow to 3.5 trillion won by 2050.

Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) announced on the 20th that it was awarded an Approval in Principle (AIP) for its basic design of LNG carrier equipped with its auxiliary propulsion system called `Wing Sail`.

The Wing Sail is an eco-friendly auxiliary propulsion system that resembles a shape of a `sail`. It utilizes the principle of propulsive-lift generated by pressure differences between the upper and lower surfaces of the wing. 

The LNG carrier, approved by the Korean Register and the Liberian Registry, is designed to enhance propulsion efficiency by using wind power with the Wing Sail. By placing the wheelhouse at the ship’s bow, SHI successfully addresses visibility issues which was one of the main challenges of existing vessels equipped with wind-assisted propulsion devices.

By installing SHI’s independently developed air resistance reduction system, `SAVER Wind`, as well as the Wing Sail, SHI expects to improve fuel efficiency while significantly lowering carbon emissions as it can reduce wind resistance and utilize wind as propulsion power.

According to the UK Department of Transport’s Clean Maritime Plan, global wind propulsion system market is expected to grow to 3.5 trillion won by 2050. Against this backdrop, SHI plans to expand the implementation of the wind-assisted propulsion system to environmentally friendly vessels, such as ammonia carriers and carbon dioxide carriers.

“Wind power, which is inexhaustible and pollution-free, is a critical pillar that can assist shipbuilding and offshore industry achieve net zero,” said Hae-ki Jang, Chief Technology Officer (VP) of SHI. “Samsung Heavy will concentrate further on the technological development of wind-assisted devices.”

“Awarding AIP to SHI’s LNG carrier equipped with the Wing Sail proves Samsung Heavy’s ability with its innovative and eco-friendly technologies,” said Yeon-tae Kim, the general manager of technical division. “KR has high expectations for SHI to play many roles in supporting shipbuilding and offshore industry reach net zero.”

“LISCR Korea is delighted to participated in an innovative project of applying the Wing Sail to the large-sized LNG carrier,” added Jung-sik Kim, managing director of LISCR Korea.

Samsung Heavy is expediting to develop new technologies for eco-friendly products and has acquired AIPs for its `floating blue ammonia production facility` and `floating carbon dioxide storage facility` at `Gastech 2024` held last September as part of its efforts. 

※  Register: A register refers to a country that gives nationality to ships and has jurisdiction over ships. Liberia and Panama are representative countries for registry.