Maritime Logistics
enterpriseTarget: Container ship operators
If you are a container ship operator dealing with high fuel costs and strict emission laws — this project developed a wind-solar hybrid system that can lead to 15.3% efficiency savings.
WHISPER · Project
Wind and Solar Retrofit Kits to Reduce Fuel Costs for Cargo Ships
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Imagine adding a giant, smart sail and a few wind turbines to a cargo ship, almost like a modern version of a sailing ship. These tools catch the wind to push the boat forward and generate electricity for the crew's needs. It's like putting a hybrid engine and solar panels on a massive ocean freighter to stop relying so much on expensive fuel.
By the numbers
15.3%
efficiency savings on retrofit containership
29.8%
efficiency savings on retrofit bulk carrier
50%
IMO GHG reduction target by 2050
15%
reduction in power demand production from fossil fuels
The business problem
What needed solving
Long-distance shipping is under pressure to cut greenhouse gas emissions to meet IMO 2050 targets, but alternative fuels are often too expensive or unavailable.
The solution
What was built
A modular retrofit kit consisting of a Wind Solar Hybrid Power system (turbines in containers and flexible PV panels) and a tilting rigid wing sail for propulsion.
Audience
Who needs this
Bulk carrier fleet ownersContainer ship operatorsMaritime retrofit shipyardsGreen shipping consultants
Business applications
Who can put this to work
Dry Bulk Shipping
enterpriseTarget: Bulk carrier owners
If you are a bulk carrier owner dealing with the need to decarbonize old fleets — this project developed a retrofit solution that demonstrates fuel savings of 29.8%.
Shipbuilding & Engineering
mid-sizeTarget: Shipyard retrofit specialists
If you are a shipyard dealing with a lack of modular green tech for old ships — this project developed a wind-solar hybrid power system and tilting wing sails that can be installed on existing vessels.
Frequently asked
Quick answers
What is the estimated cost or price of the system?
Based on available project data, specific pricing for the retrofit kits is not provided, though the project focuses on demonstrating financial viability.
Can this be scaled to all types of ships?
The project specifically demonstrates viability on container ships and bulk carriers, establishing case studies for both purpose-built and retrofit versions.
Who owns the IP or how is licensing handled?
Based on available project data, the IP arrangement is not specified, but the consortium includes 12 industry partners and 7 SMEs who are developing the technology.
How does this help with maritime regulations?
It helps ships meet International Maritime Organisation (IMO) targets for 50% GHG reduction by 2050 by reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
How is the system integrated into the ship?
The system uses modular retrofits, including vertical axis turbines mounted inside open-sided containers and flexible PV panels on bulk carrier latches.
Consortium
Who built it
The project is highly industry-driven, with 12 out of 14 partners coming from the commercial sector (86% industry ratio). The presence of 7 SMEs suggests a strong focus on agile development and commercialization, while the 6-country European reach ensures the technology is tested across different maritime environments.
How to reach the team
Contact VERKIS HF in Iceland for technical specifications on the WSHPS and WAPS modules.
Next steps
Talk to the team behind this work.
Contact us to connect with the WHISPER consortium for retrofit licensing.
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