Beckermann's Berlin Brief

At least that is what the company Skysail tell me.

After reading an article in the German Frankfurter Allegemein Zeitung (FAZ) (another article from the Stern magazine can be seen here: http://www.stern.de/computer-technik/technik/:Neuer-Schiffsantrieb-Drachen-Frachter/608291.html) I went to research the company and am pleasently surprised.

It is a relatively simple concept - though I am sure the technology behind the sail is actually quite complex. Nonetheless, company boasts that the by using the SkySails-System, "a ship‘s fuel costs can be reduced by 10- 35% on annual average, depending on wind conditions. Under optimal wind conditions, fuel consumption can temporarily be reduced by up to 50%". Considering the rising costs of oil, which either eats into a shipping companies profits or causes shipping firms to increase their rates (thereby passing the costs on to the consumer), the concept must certainly be welcome by the industry.

 

It also shows the innovative technologies - green technologies as well - that can be utilized to make our oil consumption more efficient. Not surprisingly, the German Goverment is a co-funder of the project, as is the European Union. Other governments should follow this example, and support innovative and green ideas in the fight against climate change!