Pyxis Ocean underway

During mid-2023, Cargill initiated a test of the Pyxis Ocean a bulk carrier converted to wind assisted propulsion by WindWings®.  The vessel owned by MC Shipping has made a number of voyages since August 2023 sailing the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. The initiative is in response to the International Maritime Organization target of a five to ten percent reduction in carbon energy sources.

Pyxis Ocean with aerofoils extended

It was determined that over the test period, the vessel saved three metric tons of bunker fuel daily  representing a value of $2,100. Over a 30-day voyage a Panamax dry bulk vessel carrying 57,000 metric tons of soybeans would save shippers $1.10 per ton. Based on the results, the area of wind capture will be increased to achieve a potential fuel savings of up to ten tons per day with favorable winds providing proportionally higher savings.

The question arises as to the return on investment and long-term financial benefits given the capital cost of an installation and the operational components including maintenance.