Climate-friendly island supply ship launched
In a significant step towards climate-neutral maritime operations, a new sail-hybrid supply vessel for the Marshall Islands has been launched in South Korea. Developed in a collaborative effort by the Emden/Leer University of Applied Sciences, Kostec, Asia Shipbuilding, and other partners, the vessel embodies innovative technologies like the Indosail wind propulsion system and high-performance PV power supply.
The ship is equipped with a hybrid gearbox for energy recuperation and potential biodiesel use, which should enable it to cut emissions by 80% and achieve climate neutrality in the long-term.
The project also signals a move towards low-emission shipping in Korea's shipbuilding sector, with plans for varied ship types and training for the Marshall Islands Shipping Corporation in preparation for an "Open Ship Event” planned for February 2022. (pb)