Smart Green Shipping

Smart Green Shipping (SGS), founded in 2019 by Diane Gilpin, is a systems design and engineering company focused on decarbonizing the maritime sector through wind-assisted propulsion technology. Gilpin, who serves as CEO, brings over 30 years of experience in technology and innovation, with a diverse background that includes Formula One motor racing, yacht racing, and the launch of the UK's first cellular network, all of which inform the company's approach to technology transfer and systems design. Her journey into sustainable shipping began around 2009, driven by the conviction that technology can solve the climate emergency, leading to the establishment of SGS to create commercially viable and technically superior green solutions for the industry.

The company's core market consists of ship owners and operators of the global merchant fleet, specifically targeting the approximately 40,000 existing bulkers and tankers suitable for retrofitting. SGS's primary offering is the 'FastRig', a lightweight, autonomous, and retractable rigid wingsail that can be installed on existing vessels without needing dry dock modifications. Made from recyclable materials, this technology harnesses wind power to reduce fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions by at least 20%, with potential savings reaching up to 40% annually depending on the vessel and route. The system's design allows it to be stowed during loading and unloading and operates autonomously, meaning no additional crew is required. Successful sea trials were conducted in late 2024 aboard the MV Pacific Grebe, a nuclear waste carrier, validating the system's performance and safe integration.

SGS's business model is centered on a 'Wind-as-a-Service' concept, which de-risks the adoption of this technology for shipowners. This is complemented by a proprietary software solution, 'FastRoute', developed in collaboration with the European Space Agency, which analyzes weather data to optimize routes for maximum wind utilization and quantifies fuel savings. The company has secured significant funding, including grants from Scottish Enterprise and investments from entities like MOL Drybulk (a subsidiary of Mitsui O.S.K. Lines) and Drax, totaling over $2.92 million across several rounds. This financial backing supports ongoing R&D and the commercial rollout of the FastRig technology, which has already received a first-stage Approval in Principle from Lloyd's Register.

Keywords: wind propulsion, maritime decarbonization, ship retrofitting, FastRig, wingsail technology, sustainable shipping, fuel efficiency, marine engineering, cleantech, Diane Gilpin, wind-assisted propulsion, maritime technology, emissions reduction, commercial shipping, bulk carriers, tankers, smart shipping, marine renewables, green logistics, FastRoute software, vessel optimization, shipping innovation, maritime sustainability