Korean Register, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, BAR Technologies, and the Liberian Registry are collaborating to explore the use of large wing sails on a new type of LNG carrier.
On Tuesday, these four companies signed a memorandum of understanding at Gastech 2026 in Bangkok. This agreement focuses on developing a 174,000-cubic-meter LNG carrier that will incorporate BAR Technologies’ WindWings wind-assisted propulsion system.
The aim of the project is to evaluate the technical feasibility, safety, and regulatory aspects of adding rigid wing sails to an LNG carrier. This is part of a broader effort by shipowners and builders to reduce fuel usage and emissions.
The design concept revolves around a 174,000-cubic-meter LNG carrier created by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, featuring an accommodation block situated toward the front. This forward layout creates extra upper-deck space for installing the WindWings system.
WindWings are large, rigid sails that enhance propulsion by capturing wind, which helps to reduce the power demand from the ship's main engine and, as a result, decreases fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
In this joint development project, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries will be responsible for the vessel’s basic design and review process. BAR Technologies will supply technical information regarding the WindWings setup, structural needs, operating methods, and estimated fuel savings.
Korean Register and the Liberian International Ship & Corporate Registry will evaluate the design based on relevant classification rules and international standards. KR mentioned that it might consider granting Approval in Principle, depending on the study's findings.
Hongryeul Ryu, chief technology officer at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, stated, “We have been developing innovative hull forms and layout concepts for LNG carriers to promote eco-friendly shipping technologies.”
“With this project, we aim to combine wind-assisted propulsion technology with our forward accommodation LNG carrier design to enhance the competitiveness of new low-emission LNG carriers,” he added.
BAR Technologies CEO John Cooper mentioned that the company has already implemented WindWings on 10 bulk carriers and tankers. Together, these sails save around 100 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions daily.
“We are excited to apply WindWings to next-generation gas carriers, laying the groundwork for safe commercialization and providing shipowners with an appealing environmental solution,” Cooper said.
Kyujin Yeon, executive vice president of Korean Register, expressed that the project would help assess if the technology can be safely included in the LNG carrier design while also meeting existing regulatory standards.
“By collaborating closely with the shipyard, technology provider, and flag administration, KR will continue to support the safe adoption of new technologies that contribute to reducing emissions in the maritime sector,” Yeon stated.
Alfonso Castillero, CEO of Liberian Registry, remarked that assessing the technology early in the design process could help translate emissions-reduction goals into tangible improvements in efficiency and competitiveness for vessels.
This initiative comes as interest in wind-assisted propulsion is growing beyond just bulk carriers and tankers. Shipowners are increasingly looking at this technology as a way to cut fuel costs and meet stricter emissions regulations.