Japanese liner Ocean Network Express (ONE) is trialling wind propulsion with Dutch firm Econowind. The magenta-branded containerline is set to install two containerised wind assist devices, known as VentoFoil containers, on the Kalamazoo, a 1,036 teu feeder vessel operating between Busan, Yokohama, and Honolulu.
The trial, scheduled to begin in January 2024 and run for approximately six months, will be a comprehensive study, with ONE closely monitoring the performance of the VentoFoils. Data on fuel consumption, emissions reductions, and overall operational efficiency will be collected.
“The results of the trial will be used to assess the long-term viability of wind propulsion as a sustainable shipping solution,” ONE stated in a release.