Smart Green Shipping, a women-led UK initiative in collaboration with the University of Southampton, has developed the FastRig, a 100% recyclable aluminium wing sail that combines innovative hardware with enabling software tools.
The FastRig autonomously optimises wind capture, stows in low wind to minimise drag, and ensures safety during heavy weather or port operations. Successfully tested on land and at sea, it can reduce fuel consumption and emissions by up to 40% annually while being easily retrofitted to existing vessels.
The company has received numerous accolades, including a nomination for the Earthshot Prize and funding from the UK and Scottish Governments, and European Space Agency to develop FastRoute, a digital tool for wind optimisation.
Our unique branding, created by pupils of Lorne Street Primary School, reflects its commitment to inspiring a greener future.
Global shipping emissions continue to rise, accounting for 3% of total greenhouse gas emissions despite environmental concerns. The industry faces challenges as regulatory frameworks tighten and cargo owners demand reduced emissions.
While alternative fuels are often promoted, they present significant limitations in availability, cost, and actual emission reduction. The industry finds itself in a difficult position.
Wind power offers an immediate solution to these challenges. Available freely and abundantly to properly-equipped vessels, wind reduces dependency on commodity fuels whilst enhancing economic and environmental resilience.
Smart Green Shipping has spent over a decade developing wind-assist technology to harness this natural power source for the shipping industry.
Superior Performance
FastRig savings validated through ITTC protocol sea trials, exceeding current market standards.
Report due H1 2025
Complete Solution
Integrated FastRoute optimisation software creates savings of up to 40%, offering both hardware and digital advantages
Practical Innovation
Only lightweight system enabling proven rapid install/uninstall capability, reducing operational disruption and increasing flexibility
Strong Industry Relationship
Existing investment from MOL and Drax. Letters of support from Ultrabulk and Shell, and deep engagement with large ship owners.
Zero carbon, data-driven, commercially superior global shipping - in harmony
with nature
A new faster, cleaner, cheaper and safer system combining wind power engineering, technology and finance
To be the wind of rapid change in the greatest race against time
Timeline of Smart Green Shipping
£100k raised via InnovateUK and UKI2S
Digital Simulation on 80,000dwt vessel verified
Fuel saving of min. 20% pa
£40,000 raised via ESA BIC
Creation of FastRoute Predict
£5m raised from Scottish Enterprise, MOL DryBulk,
and Private Investors
Design of FastRig for land-based prototype
£4.2m raised with UoS
FastRoute Predict developed
Build of FastRig for land-based prototype
Build of FastRig for ship-based prototype
FastRig installed on ship
