Sail Assist for Ocean Vessels
Wind powered sailing ships are not new - the first effective ships to cross the oceans were wind powered vessels. Now with crude oil reaching and passing the $US100 / bbl mark they are getting closer attention as a viable "assist" to modern freight vessels.
"... SkySails represents the only suitable model: no bothersome masts on deck, no restriction of stowage space, no hindrances to loading and discharging, no risk to the crew, cargo or ship as well as reliable overall performance. ... wind energy ... makes it possible to provide relief to the main engine ... when the sail is scaled up to 320 square metres ... potential savings of 20 to 30 percent a
re definitely feasible and realistic. ..."
An interesting observation is that in the picture to the left the vessel is carrying wind turbine equipment!
Via: SkySails Link
Via: The Beluga Group Link