Wind assisted propulsion and port call optimization for sustainable maritime transport

The maritime industry’s significant contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions necessitates the urgent exploration of sustainable alternatives. This study introduces a novel integrated framework that combines wind-assisted ship propulsion (WASP) and port call optimization (PCO) strategies to reduce emissions and operational costs. The goal is to enhance energy efficiency and minimize port time by combining renewable wind energy with advanced technologies and optimized port operations. The framework includes modeling techniques to optimize vessel sailing speeds and assess the economic and environmental trade-offs across diverse weather conditions and operational scenarios. Real-world data from multiple vessel types (tankers, bulk carriers, and containerships) and routes are analyzed through a combination of simulation-based modeling and case studies. The analysis evaluates the synergistic impact of WASP technologies, such as Flettner Rotors, Rigid Sails, and DynaRigs, with PCO strategies like just-in-time port arrivals and berth scheduling. Case studies reveal that WASP can provide up to 42% of the total force needed under optimal conditions, resulting in cost and emission savings of about 20%. The integration of just-in-time strategies could further enhance these benefits, with savings in costs growing up to around 10% and savings in emissions up to around 6%. These findings offer valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders to promote more sustainable and efficient maritime transport solutions.