Nuclear Transport Solutions (NTS) has become the first nuclear transport operator in the world to install and trial new sail technology on its ships.
The company has collaborated with renewable marine technology specialist Smart Green Shipping (SGS) on the project to find new ways to reduce fuel and greenhouse gas emissions from its nuclear ships.
(Image: CDFmedia.co.uk) The installation of SGS’s FastRig wingsail is now complete on the Pacific Grebe, a purpose-built ship designed to carry nuclear cargo around the world safely.
The innovative technology uses wind power to help propel the ship, potentially reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 30 per cent on a full commercial installation.
(Image: CDFmedia.co.uk) The FastRig wingsail is a lightweight, retractable solution that uses specialist sensors and automated technology to adapt to changing weather conditions, allowing it to deploy and retract as necessary to ensure both fuel efficiency and safety.
The ship has left its home port of Barrow-in-Furness and will be running sea trials this month.
(Image: CDFmedia.co.uk) Seth Kybird, chief executive officer of NTS, said: “We are proud to be working with Smart Green Shipping on this pioneering project as we continue our commitment to reducing our environmental impact, while continuing to deliver the highest standards of safety and security in the transport of nuclear materials.
“The addition of the FastRig system aligns with our goals for sustainable operations and demonstrates our commitment to pioneering green technologies in the maritime sector.”
(Image: CDFmedia.co.uk) Pete Buchan, managing director of shipping at NTS, said: “While this is still a trial at this stage, it’s the first real-world application of this wing and could change the way all ships sail, drastically reducing emissions and fuel usage across the industry.”
