Economy
Higher Profits and Rapid Amortisation
The planned product range of SkySails contains towing kite propulsion systems with a nominal power of up to 5,000 kW (about 6,800 HP). On annual average, fuel costs can be reduced by 10 - 35% depending on the ship type, the actual wind conditions and actual time deployed. Under optimal wind conditions the fuel consumption can temporarily be reduced by up to 50%.
At the current oil price a SkySails propulsion creates approx. just one third of the cost of conventional ship diesel. The operational costs of a ship will decrease significantly.
Because of high fuel savings, low acquisition and operational costs for the SkySails-System, short amortisation periods of three to five years can be achieved. Since the SkySails technology is constructed for retrofitting it can be installed cost-effectively on virtually all ships. No additional staff is required as the SkySails-System operates fully automatically on board the ship.
Improved Safety
Compared to conventional wind propulsions the inclined position caused by the SkySails-System is minimal and irrelevant to the ship’s safety and operation.
At sea the SkySails-System damps the waves because the uplifting forces of the towing kite effect a smoother slicing of the ship’s hull into the wave. This increases the ship’s safety considerably. Minimised slamming and torsion forces increase the ship’s safety and extend the longevity of a ship. Additionally, the well-being and performance capability of the crew are enhanced.
SkySails - as an alternative propulsion system - can also reduce the negative economic effects of engine damage, for example to a turbo-supercharger.
In the case of a total breakdown of the main engine, the SkySails propulsion system can be used as emergency propulsion to reduce the average risk.
High Punctuality
During the operation of the SkySails-System the routeing system optimises the course of the ship considering time demands set by the ship owner or ship operator. As the SkySails-System is installed as auxiliary propulsion, the main engine is available unvaried in case of insufficient wind conditions. The adherence to schedule is therefore guaranteed.
Sustainable Strategy
Due to the low operational costs using a retrofitable SkySails-System, ship owners remain competitive and profitable even in case of decreasing cargo rates. Already today they are becoming more independent from the development of the oil price. Additionally, the SkySails propulsion system can help to fulfil increasingly strict environmental regulations and avoid emission-dependent charges in future.
