German Company Tells Cargo Ship Companies: Go Fly A Kite

Expert kite flyer needed for International Cargo Shipping Company. Please send kite flying, logistics, and shipping experience to SavingEnergy@Sea. That is, of course, a fictitious job posting and and email address, but in 2008 you may see a job posting that’s similar. If SkySails can convince cargo shippers to adopt the technology they’ve developed, kite flying may become a skill that’s in demand next year!

The Skysails’ kite systems propel ships forward by using the wind as an energy source, much like the way a sail moves a sailboat. The theory is that using wind as an energy source will help cargo shipping companies reduce their energy consumption as well as the amount of pollutants they emit.

But, saving fuel and helping the environment are only two of the benefits of the SkySails-System. According to the company, using their system on a cargo ship can also reduce its fuel costs by 10 to 35% on average annually. Under perfect wind conditions, SkySails says that fuel consumption can be reduced by as much as 50%. With stats like that, I would expect that some shipping companies might give the SkySail system a try. And if it works for cargo ships, wouldn’t it work for cruise ships as well? Interesting concept, Skysails. Oh! If you’re looking for a beta tester for a car sail, email me! If gas prices go up to $4 a gallon this summer, we’re all going to be looking for something to save us up to 50% off our fuel costs. :)

For more information about what SkySails is all about, go to www.skysails.info