Dalian Shipbuilding Industry Co., Ltd. (DSIC) has received Approval in Principle (AiP) from Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore for a 175,000 cbm LNG carrier concept incorporating wind-assisted propulsion, according to the classification society.

The design combines LNG dual-fuel propulsion with three foldable wing sails manufactured from lightweight composite materials. The sails feature independent folding and rotation functions and are controlled by an intelligent monitoring system that adjusts sail angles in real time using route-specific wind data.

On typical trading routes, the concept is expected to achieve more than a 5% reduction in overall energy consumption and cut annual CO2 emissions by about 2,900 tonnes, DSIC said. The Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) for the design is projected to be around 58% below the baseline.

As part of the AiP process, Bureau Veritas conducted assessments of structural strength, material durability, and operational safety. The review confirmed the technical feasibility of the energy-efficiency targets and alignment with applicable International Maritime Organization standards.

DSIC said the design is intended as an upgrade pathway for the global fleet of 175,000 cbm LNG carriers, with a focus on maintaining operational reliability and ease of maintenance while improving efficiency.

The AiP reflects ongoing cooperation between Bureau Veritas and DSIC on low-carbon ship concepts, building on previous collaboration in LNG carrier and alternative-energy vessel designs.