USS Carl Vinson Strike Group, Exercise Tandem Thrust 2003, US Navy Photo

WASHINGTON (Dow Jones) Rear Adm. (Ret.) Robert James’s characterization of the Navy’s pursuit of alternative fuels and energy technologies displays a serious misunderstanding of the department’s commitment and rationale behind these important efforts (“Of Mustard Fuel and Marines,” op-ed, Aug. 2).

He is right to focus on our sailors and Marines and their mission, but in the end the best barrel of petroleum is the one we do not use. Energy efficiency and its correlating impact on combat effectiveness saves lives on the battlefield.

The Marine Corps, for example, is deploying Marine-tested, combat-ready renewable energy technologies in Afghanistan resulting in two patrol bases being operated entirely on renewable energy. Marine patrols that normally require a battery resupply every two to three days can now go three weeks between resupplies, extending their operational reach. For the Navy, new hull and propeller coatings, stern flaps and future engine modifications are going to save five million barrels per year at sea by 2020, again returning mission capability to our warfighters.

Alternative fuels are critically important as a hedge against the risk to a single source of energy, as well as a way to assure that we can continue to perform our mission. Domestically sourced, advanced drop-in biofuels that do not adversely impact food, water, or land use provide a significant opportunity for the department to reduce its dependence on foreign sources of fuel. Today, solutions exist, are being scaled and further driven toward economic parity that have substantially different implications than past generations of biofuels.

Energy efficiency, alternative fuels and energy technologies significantly enhance our combat capabilities. Having a unified position across the Department of the Navy, we can lead the nation toward a more independent, more secure energy future.

- Jackalyne Pfannenstiel, Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Energy, Installations, and Environment

The monopile, which provides the base for the wind turbine, was supplied and installed by joint venture Per Arsleff Bilfinger Berger Ingeniurbeu GmBH using A2SEA’s jack-up barge, Seaworker. The transition piece was then lifted into place, completing the project’s first full foundation installation.

“This is a significant milestone for London Array, off the shore and into the water. Soon we’ll be seeing the turbines going up and the wind farm starting to generate low carbon electricity,” said DON Energy CEO Anders Eldrup.

London Array is located around 20 kilometers off the coast of Kent and Essex in southeast England and will be built in two phases. The first phase will include 175 wind turbines with a combined capacity of 630 megawatts and the second phase will take the capacity up to 1,000 megawatts.

The first phase is expected to be completed at the end of 2012.

-By Selina Williams, Dow Jones Newswires

Photo: A2SEA’s jack-up barge “Sea Worker” installing the final blade on the offshore wind farm “Robin Rigg’s” first wind turbine back in 2008 via NewEnergyFocus.com.

Brazilian state-run energy giant Petrobras (PBR, PETR4.BR) will spend $3.5 billion over the next four years to more than double biofuels output, positioning the company to take advantage of global demand for clean, renewable sources of energy.

“We are preparing for a global scenario in which the demand for biofuels is expanding,” Miguel Rossetto, chief executive of Petrobras biofuels unit Petrobras Biocombustivel, said in an interview.

Petrobras created Petrobras Biocombustivel in 2008 to be the platform for its entry into Brazil’s biofuels sector, where sugarcane ethanol has been in use since the 1970s. But the world’s need to reduce carbon emissions, including firm targets set by some countries, means that demand for biofuels such as ethanol and biodiesel will likely explode in coming years.

The transition toward low-carbon economies is already “definitive,” Rossetto said, “and the evolution of the low-carbon economy for the fuels sector is already a reality in some countries and will be a growing reality for the rest of the world.”

“The pace of growth, the volume of growth and the size of these markets are what’s in play,” Rossetto said. “But the course of expansion for renewable energy markets for us is a given.”

Petrobras Biocombustivel currently operates or has stakes in 14 biofuel mills, including 10 dedicated to ethanol production and four for biodiesel, Rossetto said.

The company plans to spend $2.5 billion to boost ethanol and biodiesel production, with about 80% of the total earmarked for ethanol projects, Rossetto said. An additional $1 billion will be spent on infrastructure development, including Petrobras’ participation in a $3.3 billion ethanol pipeline project, as well as research and development.

Ethanol production is targeted for 2.6 million cubic meters by 2014, up from output of one million cubic meters in 2010. Biodiesel production, meanwhile, is expected to climb to 750,000 cubic meters in 2014, up from 500,000 cubic meters at the end of last year.

The company’s primary focus is to meet rising demand in Brazil, Rossetto said. Brazil not only mandates a 25% blend of ethanol into gasoline at the pump, the country also has a massive flex-fuel fleet of light vehicles that can operate seamlessly on ethanol, gasoline or any combination of the two fuels.

Demand for biofuels from the petrochemicals sector is also growing as the industry moves toward greater production of so-called green plastics. Local petrochemicals giant Braskem (BAK, BRKM5.BR), in which Petrobras holds a 49% stake, consumes about 400,000 cubic meters of ethanol per year.

Brazil’s appetite for biodiesel is expected to grow “very strongly,” given the heavy use of diesel fuel in the country’s transportation sector, Rossetto said. And while the government currently requires a 5% blend of biodiesel with diesel fuel, called B5, that’s likely to rise in coming years.

“We believe that in 2011, the government should start an initiative to put in place a regulatory regime for biodiesel. The idea is to increase the biodiesel blend to 10%, starting in 2012,” Rossetto said.

While high tariffs present a barrier to ethanol exports, Rossetto said that a recent biodiesel joint venture with Portugal’s Galp Energia (GALP.LB) opens a golden door to the European market.

Petrobras will produce palm oil on plantations in Para state, then ship it to a refinery in Portugal capable of producing 250,000 cubic meters of green biodiesel by 2015.

“We think that Europe will not be able to supply via its own production the biofuels necessary to meet the mandate to use 10% biofuels in its transportation sector by 2020,” Rossetto said. “(Europe) should be importers of biofuels.”

-By Jeff Fick, Dow Jones Newswires

“Virginia is pleased to be the nexus where two industry leaders will join forces in the name of offshore wind innovation,” said Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell. “The Commonwealth offers all the attributes needed to provide an optimal location for offshore wind energy production, and to become the East Coast epicenter for the offshore wind supply chain. This partnership between Gamesa and Northrop Grumman shares similar goals with the National Offshore Wind Technology Center being developed in Hampton Roads, which the Commonwealth also supports. The opportunity to leverage both centers moves Virginia forward in our effort to become the energy capital of the East Coast and a leader in the nation’s offshore wind industry.”

The opening of the center builds on the alliance the two companies formed in October to cooperate on the launch of Gamesa’s first G11X-5.0 MW offshore prototype in the United States, using Gamesa’s multi-megawatt technology and Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding’s broad experience in challenging marine environments.

Since then, Gamesa and Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding have put in place a team of nearly 50 engineers, focusing on the development of Gamesa’s G11X-5.0 MW offshore prototype in the United States. The highly skilled team will oversee the design and development of the wind turbine and testing of the prototypes. The team’s immediate goal is to install the first two Gamesa G11X-5.0 MW offshore prototypes — one onshore and one offshore for comprehensive validation testing — by the fourth quarter of 2012.

“We needed to find the best partner for the marine environments, someone capable of meeting Gamesa’s high performance standards, and we found that partner in Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding,” said Dirk Matthys, Chairman and CEO of Gamesa North America. “This venture will enable Gamesa, already one the world’s leading designers, manufacturers, installers and maintainers of land-based wind turbines, to put our technology to work to design the first generation of offshore wind technology that will meet the rising demand for clean, sustainable energy.”

Matthys stressed that the partnership between Gamesa and Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding ensures an integrated approach to the design will be met. An integrated design and logistics support approach of the wind turbine systems will address the market’s main concerns, namely turbine reliability, low maintenance and servicing requirements, and minimizing the cost of generating electricity.

“Gamesa’s priorities are well aligned with the strategy outlined by U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu and U.S. Interior Secretary Ken Salazar earlier this week,” Matthys added. “Our Chesapeake Offshore Wind Technology Center is just the latest example of our longtime leadership in developing advanced solutions for wind energy.”

Attending the launch of the Offshore Wind Technology Center on behalf of the U.S. Department of Energy was Jacques Beaudry-Losique, Wind & Water Program Manager in the department’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy.

“Today represents a new chapter in our company’s long and distinguished history,” said Matt Mulherin, Vice President and General Manager for Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding. “We are very proud to be teamed with such an innovative and highly-respected industry leader like Gamesa, and we look forward to bringing our 125 years of engineering, design and manufacturing expertise to this project.”

Britt Theismann, Chief Operating Officer of the American Wind Energy Association, said: “Offshore wind development is the next big thing for the American Wind industry, and this center is a major milestone in our progress to harness these vast resources to power our economy and put people to work. Through this new center, Gamesa and Northrop Grumman are creating a new and revolutionary addition to the wind energy supply chain, right here in America. This facility is another example of the many jobs and economic benefits the wind industry is bringing to this country.  Wind power is clean, affordable and homegrown”

“Chesapeake takes pride in an environment that offers a central location, a highly-skilled work force and access to multiple markets, all of which are qualities that have drawn world-class businesses like Gamesa and Northrop Grumman to our city,” Chesapeake Mayor Alan P. Krasnoff said. “These two companies — both leaders in the growing energy sector — are opening new doors and creating new opportunities for our city and our Commonwealth, and Chesapeake is happy to welcome them with open arms.”

Energy Secretary Steven Chu and Interior Secretary Ken Salazar announced $50 million in funding for wind energy research and development and designated four areas off the shores of Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey and Virginia where wind power proposals will receive an expedited review.

“We can win the clean energy race,” Chu said Monday at a press conference.

U.S. regulators could offer leases for those areas “as early as the end of 2011 or early 2012,” the Departments of Interior and Energy said in a press release. The agencies said an early environmental review will quicken the approval process.

Meanwhile, the Energy Department said it is soliciting proposals for research into wind turbine design and factors that limit deployment of wind energy. The agency has set aside funding worth up to $50.5 million over the next five years.

Chu and Salazar made their announcement in Norfolk, Va., where area ports have been envisioned as a hub of wind energy manufacturing.

-By Ryan Tracy Copyright (c) 2011 Dow Jones & Company, Inc.

[U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Gregory N. Juday/Released]

Last week, the U.S. Navy showed off the power and maneaverability of its 49-foot experimental Riverine Command Boat (RCB-X) in Norfolk, VA.  But what’s unique about the RCB-X is not only what you can see from the outside, but by what, at least in part, powers it; algae.

That’s right.  The experimental RCB-X is powered by a half part diesel, and half part algae based fuel.  U.S. Navy tells us:

The fuel, a “drop in replacement” to standard shipboard fuel, is 50 percent algae-based and 50 percent NATO F-76 fuel, which forms a 50/50 blend of hydro-processed renewable diesel, also known in industry as “HR-D.”

Additionally, HR-D, as opposed to biofuel, does not include water which is incompatible for shipboard fuel systems and does not have the limited serviceable life (typically six months) of biofuels. A blended hydro-processed renewable diesel fuel ensures that the integrity of the fuel system is maintained. Read More

The demonstration supports the Navy’s efforts to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, culminating in 2012 with a Green Strike Group operating locally.  By 2016, the Navy plans on deploying a Great Green Fleet powered entirely by alternative fuels.

While it’s easy to see the environmental benefits of seeking alternative energy sources, going green does not come cheap.  Wired Magazine’s Danger Room blog reports:

To find out more about the U.S. Navy’s energy initiatives and priorities visit, http://greenfleet.dodlive.mil/ or www.navy.mil/local/nee/.

From the gCaptain Archives:

In honor of the EPA’s Pollution Week, let’s take a look at an archived post on Skysails. But first, here is a brief update into the current state of affairs provided by Skysails:

Within the framework of the pilot phase, the SkySails-System is being explored on board the MS “Michael A.” and the MS “Beluga SkySails” during regular shipping operations. Throughout these trials the system’s level of robustness and reliability is first of all being elevated to that demanded by our customers and its suitability for daily use established. Subsequently the system’s performance will be evaluated extensively and optimized.

On both ships – the “Michael A.” and the “Beluga SkySails” – the SkySails-System has been put into operation successfully. The customer vessels remain in regular commercial operation throughout the pilot phase. Initially, two to three SkySails engineers will be aboard of each ship. All components are being long-term tested during use of the SkySails-System on board. The results immediately flow into the process of improving and optimizing the product. Read full update…

On her maiden voyage, the Beluga SkySails set sail to Venezuela from Bremen on January 22, 2008 and reached the Norwegian port of Mo-I-Rana on March 13, 2008 after travelling a total of 11,952 nautical miles.

Archived post originally posted in Jan. ’08.

Three years ago at the World Expo in Aichi Japan SkySails promised a revolutionary design with the ability to reduce fuel consumption aboard ship by up to 24%. Last week the dream became reality. BBC News tells us:

There is something rather magical about being up on deck of a giant cargo ship as it pushes its way out to sea. Ten thousand tonnes of metal heaving through the water, the ship’s giant masts glistening in the winter sun. But there is something even more magical about being aboard MS Beluga SkySails. On the face of it, this vessel – which is carrying parts of a timber production line to Venezuela – looks like any other cargo ship.

MS Beluga SkySails believes its fuel bill will be cut by £800 ($1,560) a day. “We can demonstrate that you can combine economy and ecology,” Verena Frank of Beluga Shipping explains. “Economy, because you can reduce fuel consumption and fuel costs, and on the ecological side of things, we reduce emissions.”

The kite is controlled by computers. One computer helps it to fly in figures of eight in the sky – maximising the power it produces. Another computer adjusts the kite’s direction. If the project is successful, expect to see even bigger kites soon – some up to 5,000sq m (53,820sq ft) in size pulling ships across the seas and oceans. Read More…

Video

Also be sure to watch National Geographic’s Profile of SkySails.

Background

In 2001 skysails started with the development of
the world‘s first practicable towing kite propulsion
system for commercial shipping and luxury yachts.
then after five years of intense developmental work,
the basic research and engineering was completed
near the end of 2005. In early 2006 the final
development phase prior to the market launch of the
skysails-system began on board the approximately
55-meter buoy-laying vessel ms “Beaufort“.
The first skysails-systems are being installed on pi-
lot customer cargo ships in 2007.

Partnership

The MS Beluga SkySails, will carry the first parts of a complete particle board factory from Bemen to Venezuela on behalf of DHL Global Forwarding, the ocean and air freight carrier of the Deutsche Post World Net Group. The multipurpose vessel will set sail early next week. What makes it so special is a new wind propulsion system with a huge towing kite that provides additional thrust for the ship at sea – a sustainable solution for reducing fuel consumption, costs and emissions.

Why

The economic force driving the resurgence of interest in wind power is the rising cost of fuel oil, which has topped $100 a barrel in futures markets. A freighter’s fuel consumption can be cut by 10 percent to 15 percent if a kite is used to pull the ship.

In addition to fuel costs, ship emissions is an important environmental topic for the shipping industry. In a 2007 report published by The Environmental Science and Technology Journal 60,000 deaths per year worldwide were attributed to vessel emissions. The following map charts the annual increase in sulfur emissions in the world’s shipping lanes.

The Technology

(Source: National Post)

(Source: SkySails Brochure)

(Source: BBC News)

Beluga SkySails in the media:

• NPR – Bryant Park Project
• National Geographic Video
• NYTmes Blog Article

The Competition

SkySails is not the only company looking to provide alternative energy solutions to power commercial ships. From solar sails to wing kites various companies worldwide are looking for solutions that will benefit the environment and cut down on high fuel costs. Lets take a look at some of the technology currently being developed.

KiteShip

KiteShip – 2006 was been a good year for the California-based company KiteShip, which makes “very large free-flying sails”— basically, giant traction kites that harness the wind to pull very large free-floating objects. If you’ve ever gone to the beach and seen someone kite-surfing — standing on a board while being pulled by a kite — then you’ve seen a traction kite in action. KiteShip currently sells the Outleader, which helps increase yacht speeds. And it is working to improve the range and the speed of fast ferries and oceangoing research vessels without burning more fuel. Dave Culp, the engineer who helped found KiteShip, calls the three-person operation a “micromultinational.” Read More…

M/V Orcelle

M/V Orcelle – At 820 feet long ‘Orcelle’ is shorter than the Queen Mary 2 (1,132ft) and the QE2 (963ft). The ship is called the E/S Orcelle after the Orcelle Dolphin – the French word for Irrawaddy dolphin, one of the world’s most critically endangered species. The E/S stands for “environmentally sound ship”. The vessel will include a cargo deck the size of 14 football pitches. Wave energy is to be harnessed by 12 dolphin like fins an the ships hull. While, sun and wind energy is collected by three giant rigid wingsails, also covered in solar panels. Read More at SolarNavigator…

Related Links: Green Flagship Homepage | PDF Brochure | Solar Shipping Links

Solar Navigator

M/V Solar Navigator Swath – the Solar Navigator started out as a SWATH design, first exhibited at Earls Court in 1995. Since that time various wave piercing models have been developed and tested, the aim being to improve performance and reduce build costs. Both teams estimate similar travel times. One day it may be possible to travel around the world on solar power, in under 80 days. Jules Verne would have loved this. See also, the Swiss Transatlantic Sun 21 attempt using the almanac below. Read More…

Related Links: Building the SWATH Model | ZDnet Article | CNN Coverage

Magenn Air Generator

Magenn Air Generator - While designed for shore based power stations, not ships, could they one day be repurposed? “

Magenn’s system is a lighter-than-air wind turbine capable of powering a rural village – the 30 metre wide, helium-filled “Air Rotor System” contains a turbine that spins around a horizontal axis and can produce 10 kilowatts of energy as it floats above the ground while attached to a copper tether. Larger models — ones that might power a skyscraper — are also reportedly in the works. The company claims the governments of India and Pakistan have expressed interest in the first version. Magenn is planning to launch a 1kw prototype (costing around C$1 million) into the air above Ottawa this (northern) spring.” Read More…

Related Links: Laddermilk Kites

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AquaSailor

AquaSailor – The concept involves a series of supertankers specially designed and constructed for the carriage of potable water. The water is transported onto land through small, offshore facilities known as Single Point Moorings (SPMs). Using unique Solar Wing sails with solar cell array technology reduces fuel consumption and emissions by nearly 50% on the voyages compared to the conventional tanker of this size and hydrodynamic characteristics.

LNG As Propulsion

LNG Propelled Cruise Ship – As part of its development work, Wärtsilä has developed a new coastal cruise ferry using liquefied natural gas (LNG) as fuel. LNG is an efficient way to cut emissions. All SOX emissions are eliminated and the NOX and CO2 emissions are reduced by about 80% and 20% respectively (see figure 1). LNG is not only an environmentally sound solution, but also economically interesting at today’s oil prices.

The new ferry is designed for cruising along the Norwegian coast between small coastal communities. As this still represents a relatively untouched natural landscape, an environmentally friendly ship solution is required. The same ship and machinery concept could also be applied easily to other passengership operations, such as short-route ferries and expedition cruise vessels. Read More…

Increasing Efficiencies

Floating On Bubbles Of Air

Bubbling Ship – One promising solution derives from the work of Yoshiaki Kodama, director of the Advanced Maritime Transport Technology Department at Japan’s National Maritime Research Institute (NMRI) in Tokyo. Kodama’s team proposes to shoot a layer of bubbles from slots near the bow of the ship. The bubbles will travel along the hull of the ship, with enough bubbles trapped under the ship’s surfaces so that the constant replenishment is sufficient to maintain the blanket of bubbles. Read More…

Shark Skin Coatings

SharkSkin Coatings – To find a way to persuade algae to move on rather than killing them scientists at the University of Florida turned to nature. Sharks don’t have algae or barnacle problems despite being underwater all their lives. Shark skin is made up of tiny rectangular scales topped with even smaller spines or bristles. This makes shark skin rough to the touch. This irregular surface makes it difficult for plant spores to get a good grip and grow into algae or other plants. Read More…

Boats

Much of the technology being developed for shipping companies with big budgets and fuel costs will trickle down to our smaller coastal friends. Here’s a look at green initiatives for boaters.

Solar Sailor

Solar Sailor – Hybrid marine power combines electric drives with the power and range of hydrocarbon and/or alternative fuels. Solar panels charge the electric engines to offer better acceleration, quicker emergency stopping and easier handling. Although useful for applications such as tourism, recreation and fishing, they also under scrutiny for duty as urban ferries, where they would use 50% less fuel, generating a correspondingly 50% less emissions. Passengers also experience less noise, vibration and fumes. But the solar wings are not passive. They can be adjusted, so as to act like real cloth sales, … … with boat speeds of 8-10 knots having been achieved, cutting fuel consumption even further. If wind speed hit 35 knots, a computer lowers the sails into the roof where they offer zero windage. A 140 passenger craft, with speeds of 20 knots has more recently been developed. Read More…

Related Links: SolarSailor FAQ | Treehugger Profile | Company Homepage

Windmill Turbine Boats

Windmill Turbine Boats – While small dingy’s have been tested using windmill turbine design, the inventor hopes this to be a technology used on future vessels of all sizes. His estimated date for first launch? 2028

Related Links: Inventor’s Page | Treehugger Article

SkySails SuperYacht

SkySails SuperYacht – Humphreys Yacht Design, together with SkySails, will be exhibiting the concept for a high-performance hybrid super yacht at this year’s Monaco Yacht Show. Powered by SkySails, this 40-meter trimaran can reach speeds of up to 18 knots without the help of its main engine, and up to 30 knots with the main engine. Naturally the two power sources can be used in combination to conserve fuel. With SkySails a shaft-driven generator can be activated, which charges batteries that can supply the main diesel-electric propulsion as needed. This way, with suitable wind conditions, the hybrid yacht can be powered without having to depend on oil. Yacht owners can now sail in a way that is ecologically responsible, without having to sacrifice the comfort they’ve come to enjoy. And, this type of propulsion provides owners a high degree of security and independence in times of crisis. Read More…

What are the 11 most interesting Wind Turbine Designs?

Today’s hottest job market for mariners is Offshore Oil and Gas but this is by no means the only controversial industry segment which presents opportunities to mariners. Like exploratory drilling, Offshore wind farms have also raised controversy among industry experts but presents unique job opportunities for those looking for more than the average liner run. Today we look at the 5 most interesting wind turbine designs.
.

Helix Wind

Helix Wind, who offers a well-designed system that creates electricity to power any home or small business. The Savonius turbine-based design catches wind from all directions, creating smooth powerful torque to spin the electric generator. It’s mounted up to 35 feet high, in winds as low as 10 mph, thus allowing the Helix system to fulfill electricity needs, while being congruous with the environment. The strength of the wind is captured by Helix’s distinctive and efficient vertical blade design. The vertical Savonious 2.0 and Savonious 5.0 have a patent pending design which empowers the turbine to convert wind power into energy less than 5 decibels above background noise. Translation… The noise that the turbine makes is similar to the noise generated when wind passes through a tree or a house, compared to conventional horizontal wind turbines that operate at up to ten times above the wind speed, which is responsible for the piercing whistling sound near wind farms. (Source: gLiving.tv | Video)

QuietRevolution

This is equivalent to about five low-energy houses’ electricity demand, or the electrical needs of a twenty man office. Unlike other turbines which are usually noisy the unique shape of the quietrevolution turbine allows it to operate in near silent which is ideal for operating close to residential areas. The distinctive helical shape of the turbine is also eye pleasing which is impotent since many communities rejected wind turbines because of their visual impact. (Source: TheFutureOfThings)

Selsam Super Turbine

The innovative Selsam SuperTurbine off-shore concept was designed for simplicity, as it eliminates all components that do not directly contribute to power generation, resulting in a low-cost wind turbine. The unit is equipped with multiple, synchronous, small rotors and with a universal joint that enables it to tilt. Because of this structure, the turbines resemble reeds bending in the wind. The optional addition of a blimp can make this floating wind turbine even more powerful. The Selsam prototype was able to produce 6,000 watts in 32.5 mph winds, proving the efficiency and effectiveness of the design. (Source: TFOT)

Salsam Sky Serpant

The advantages of the SuperTurbine design are many. First, during large and fierce storms, these deep water turbines may intentionally lay down by flooding chambers, or even completely submerge to survive. Bonus! Second, flotation near the surface forms a fulcrum, with the weight of the rotors and driveshaft balanced by a downward force from the mooring below. According to the site, this allows the turbine to bend similar to arching your back to take advantage of wind patterns much more easily. Additionally, the rotors can be staggered, spiral, or in line. (Source: GroovyGreen)

The LoopWing

This is the “LoopWing” wind turbine. It is soon to be unveiled in Japan’s Eco-Products 2006 Exhibition. The E1500 model turbine is aimed at homeowners, and it sports a unique wing design that operates with low vibration, and at wind speeds as low as 1.6 m/sec. The efficiency specs on the turbine are vague — “43% power performance at optimum wind speeds” is all published.(Source: Treehugger)

The Egg Beater

BSI, the British Standards Institute, gave first prize in its Sustainability Awards 2007 to Ben Storan for his “afforable personal wind turbine suited to the urban environment.” According to the BSI, The result is a unique design which uses vertical, rather than traditional horizontal, rotation. This feature gives a slower rotational speed, which allows the turbine to capture more energy from turbulent air flow, common to urban environments. It also means quieter operation. (Source:: Treehugger)

Magenn Air Generator

Magenn Air Generator - While designed for shore based power stations, not ships, could they one day be repurposed? ”

Magenn’s system is a lighter-than-air wind turbine capable of powering a rural village – the 30 metre wide, helium-filled “Air Rotor System” contains a turbine that spins around a horizontal axis and can produce 10 kilowatts of energy as it floats above the ground while attached to a copper tether. Larger models — ones that might power a skyscraper — are also reportedly in the works. The company claims the governments of India and Pakistan have expressed interest in the first version. Magenn is planning to launch a 1kw prototype (costing around C$1 million) into the air above Ottawa this (northern) spring.” Read More…

Kite Turbine

Chetwoods Associates, an architectural group from Great Britain, has come up with a new environmental design that promises to capture wind power in an odd but innovative manner: By using a huge replica sail as a model. The first version of this idea will use a giant spinnaker sail placed in a mountain gorge near Russia’s Lake Ladoga area. A spinnaker is a type of sail usually made for boats taking wind from ‘a reaching course to a downwind, i.e. with the wind 90°–180° off the bow.’ It’s supposed to take in the wind, powerfully generated between a mountainside channel, and then further funnel that energy through an attached turbine. It’s safe to assume that there would be power conduit beneath the river to drag in the converted energy for community use. (Source: Wired)

WindSpiral Turbine

At a height of 30 ft. tall and only 2 feet wide, the WindSpire converts wind energy into measurable electricity through a vertical design, a rotor/generator system (with a low speed giromill and rotating ‘air core’ motors), and a wireless modem that an owner can track on a computer. It produces about 1900 kilowatt hours per year in 12 mile per hour average winds, which is about a quarter of the total energy used by a regular U.S. house. But the key promise mentioned in the video, is that if the spire was twice as thick, it could likely produce 100% of the energy needs of a household. (Source: Wired)

MagLev Wind Turbine

The MagLev wind turbine is expected take wind power technology to the next level with magnetic levitation. Magnetic levitation is an extremely efficient system for wind energy. Here’s how it works: the vertically oriented blades of the wind turbine are suspended in the air above the base of the machine, replacing the need for ball bearings. The turbine uses “full-permanent” magnets, not electromagnets – therefore, it does not require electricty to run. The full-permanent magnet system employs neodymium (“rare earth”) magnets and there is no energy loss through friction. This also helps reduce maintenance costs and increases the lifespan of the generator. (Source: Inhabitat)

Laddermill

Researchers at Delft University are building what they call a Laddermill to tap the steady and stiff winds in the jet stream. The Laddermill consists of a stack of tethered kites that soar as high as five miles and then return toward earth in an endless loop to generate electricity. As the kites sail up to the jet stream and back, they pull with them tethers that turn an electrical generator located on the ground. The Delft researchers also are experimenting with a fleet of gliders that would soar in place of the kites. (Source: CNN)

Offshore Installation – A Photo Diary

For those curious how these wind farms will be installed offshore… be sure to check out Frodog’s Photo Diary of the Skegness Project. You can view the diary HERE and the HD Slideshow HERE.

Passion focused on a singular goal is often the driver of new ideas and technology. Today the focus for many is on saving our planet from the effects of global warming a goal magnified by a global, bipartisan desire to reduce our dependence on oil. For maritime interests the opportunity to participate in a solution is significant. A recent study by the American Geophysical Union confirms long held beliefs that marine transportation is among the most fuel-efficient methods for moving global resources but simultaneously acknowledges shipping as a significant factor contributing to global climate change. By improving on the efficiencies inherent in ocean transport great opportunity exists for this industry to make a significant and lasting impact on the environment. Leading the way in reducing emissions and fuel consumption is Hamburg based Skysails GmbH.

The innovative idea, in terms of both imaginative thought and probability of home run success, of using kites to tow large commercial ships was conceived by inventor Stephan Wrage. This exciting product finds its origins in the kite surfing community but, unlike its cousin, was not developed in the backyards and garages of enthusiasts for personal enjoyment. Rather the company and its distinguished partners, which include Beluga Shipping and the historic Zeppelin Power Systems, have financial goals and high level government support fueling their goal of incubating the second age of sail.

To meet this goal the partnership launched the M/V Beluga Skysails, the first new cargo ship harnessing wind power to be built in over a century, and set sail across the Atlantic early last year. The results were impressive. Launched and operated remotely from an advanced electronic control panel on the vessel’s bridge, the 1,722 square foot kite, flying between 300 and 600 feet above the ship, produced an average fuel savings of 10-15%. While pleased with the result the company hopes to double the total savings as new partnerships are formed and improvements to the system are made. To this end the US Navy’s Military Sealift Command chartered the M/V Beluga Skysails in October and is looking at ways to contribute to the project.

One area with great potential for improving efficiencies is weather forecasting and routing. The company tells us that as an auxiliary wind propulsion system, the performance, and thus generated fuel & emission savings, of the SkySails system highly depends on the wind conditions prevailing along the routes traveled. In this regard, weather routing is a very important and useful tool as it allows shipping companies to guide their ships to their destinations on the most cost-effective routes while always adhering to schedule.

To better understand the special requirements of this operation we asked the company for clarification on the weather related issues pertinent to the system. They wrote:

SkySails towing kites operate at altitudes between 100 and 300 m where stronger and more stable winds prevail. As to that, new forecasting products have to be developed which take these different wind conditions/altitudes into account.

In general, wind speeds on the world’s oceans and thus wind power generated by sailing propulsions depend greatly on the respective region. SkySails did a global analysis of the wind energy potential on the world’s ocean based on a comprehensive database of weather data of the past six years. The results of these computations demonstrate high wind energy potential on most of the main routes of the shipping industry, e.g. on the North Atlantic, the North Pacific or in Northern Europe.

Of further importance, the SkySails-System is designed for operation in predominantly prevailing wind forces of 3 to 8 Beaufort at sea. The system can be recovered, but not launched at wind forces below 3 Beaufort. Their double-wall profile gives the SkySails towing kites aerodynamic properties similar to the wing of an aircraft. Thus, the SkySails-System can operate not just downwind, but at courses of up to 50° to the wind as well. Test results show that in practice high propulsion power can be achieved on halfwind, reaching and downwind courses from 90° to 270°.

SkySails towing kites operate at altitudes between 100 and 300 m where stronger and more stable winds prevail. As to that, new forecasting products have to be developed which take these different wind conditions/altitudes into account. We are currently developing such a product in cooperation with the meteorological services provider WetterWelt from Kiel, Germany.

New weather routing skills are not the only challenges facing crews of ships equipped with this technology. The SkySails system is overseen by an automatic control system housed on the bridge that continuously monitors and controls the kite, altering its flight plan by steering the unit to the optimal position and augment forward thrust.

Launching and recovering the kite is also automated but, like all such systems, requires the occasional help and watchful eye of a trained crew. On the job training augments knowledge but the core concepts of the system are taught during a two-day program which teaches the theoretical principles underlying how the SkySails system is employed. In addition to the fundamentals of SkySails technology and aerodynamics, this instruction focuses on imparting an understanding of how to utilize the system during maritime operations, including systems control, monitoring, stability, maneuver performance and deployment conditions, as well as the legal principles governing its use.

One question that remains is why the Germans are alone in offering this technology. The reason is certainly not a lack of effort or imagination. In 1978 KiteShip was launched in California and became the first company looking to bring innovative kite design to the commercial shipping market. After much hard work the company seemed destined for success when, in 2002, they successfully tested the concept by propelling a tug across San Francisco Bay. Today calls to the company’s headquarters go unanswered.

I last spoke with KiteShip CEO Dave Culp after the SkySails first set sail across the Atlantic and his mood matched his report of KiteShip’s recent progress; dismal. Culp claimed the strength of his competitor’s program is due to high level partnerships with government as well as shipping, engineering and marine propulsion firms. With the state of the American Merchant Marine hovering long term at the low water mark and the green movement still in its infancy commercial funding was not an option for them. To further aggravate the problem government agencies proved to be of little help to the KiteShip team and, in fact, provided much regulatory hindrance.

Some close to the case have pointed to another problem hindering commercial support; the lack of economic benefit outside of fuel cost savings. To explore this point we contacted business owners via internet based social media channels like Twitter, LinkedIn and gCaptain. The most common answer among vessel operators was the industries long history of pensive debate prior to deciding on new technology which will be relied upon by mariners in the isolation of the sea. One ship owner, who did not wished to be named, said, “Fuel costs mostly get passed onto the shipper so we see little use in installing potentially expensive, untested technology to which we see no other benefit. Basically I am interested but will not be the first to try it on a large scale.”

This basic premise was reiterated by multiple parties but the story of the shipper is different. Importers and exporters we spoke with were all interested, albeit at differing levels of enthusiasm. At the lowest level shippers of bulk material expressed interest in cost savings. At the highest level the cost was less of a need alongside importers like Anthony Nicalo, President of Farmstead Wines. Nicalo’s concern was in the branding of his core product, environmentally sustainable wine. He writes, “Transport is the most significant customer relations problem my company will face in the future due to increased attention to the green economy. While we work hard to source wines that are truly sustainable, they still have to be shipped.”

Some companies in Nicalo’s industry have already turned to green shipping alternatives and, in fact, worked to make another step into a second age of sail by chartering the Tall Ship Belem to sail wine between European ports. The majority of shippers, however, have not made significant effort in reducing emissions but the idea is promising. GCaptain.com contributor “Capt.Mike” notes; “The idea needs to build momentum within the maritime community before wide scale adoption of kite technology is seen. Someone needs to be the first and the perfect candidate is a company that finds significant benefit from all angles of the equation. The perfect candidate is Toyota shipping.” And Mike is right.

Being both importers and exporters of great need Toyota has leverage with ship owners. This, along with cumulative fuel savings across a fleet of ships, a proven ability to pass along cost to environmentally conscience consumers and the powerful marketing message of Toyota ships flying kites, results in a golden opportunity for the auto manufacturer. In fact, the company is testing green shipping alternatives and has already installed the largest array of solar panels aboard ship to date. Combining kite assisted propulsion with solar energy generation and additional systems like Wartsilla’s marine fuel cell and ultra-effectiant bottom coatings, has potential to provide the one two punch against carbon generating marine diesel engines.

Today respected Journalists like Thomas Friedman of the New York Times and countless politicians led by Al Gore have identified the need for this country to take the lead with regards to green innovation. While US based shipping companies still have the opportunity to lead the way by purchasing a large share of the 1,500 systems expected to be produced by 2015, it is already too late for this country to pioneer the most promising marine environmental idea in shipping this century. That is, unless you have an even bigger idea. Magnetic propulsion anyone?

This article was originally published in the April 2009 edition of Mariners Weather Log. More interesting articles from this NOAA publication can be found HERE.

The U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command has recently chartered the M/V Beluga Skysails for over a month long voyage transporting Air Force and Army cargo from Europe to the U.S.  This is the first time the U.S. Navy is using a vessel with the sky sails technology.

The 400 ft. M/V Beluga Skysails is the world’s first cargo ship that uses sky sails technology; a new wind propulsion system with a huge towing kite that provides additional thrust for the ship at sea – a sustainable solution for reducing fuel consumption, costs and emissions.  It is estimated that a sky sail can reduce fuel consumption by 20 to 30 percent, or roughly $1,600 per day.

When asked of MSC’s choice for choosing the M/V Beluga Skysails: “MSC values innovation that leads to cost savings,” said Navy Capt. Nick Holman, commander of Sealift Logistics Command Europe, MSC’s area command for Europe and Africa. “We are proud to be collaborating with innovators in the commercial maritime world to provide our customers with efficient and quality service.”

MSC operates approximately 110 noncombatant, civilian-crewed ships that replenish U.S. Navy ships, conduct specialized missions, strategically preposition combat cargo at sea around the world and move military cargo and supplies used by deployed U.S. forces and coalition partners.

(source: MSC Website)

You can read more about sky sails technology as well as other green ship designs in gCaptain’s previous post Skysails – Plus – Top 10 Green Ship Designs