Episode 85 Wind-Assisted Propulsion with Cristina Aleixendri Muñoz

Episode 85:

Wind-Assisted Propulsion and Innovation in Maritime with Cristina Aleixendri Muñoz

Guest:
Cristina Aleixendri Muñoz, COO & Co-founder at bound4blue

Episode Overview:
In this episode, Chris Aversano talks with Cristina Aleixendri Muñoz about bound4blue’s cutting-edge wind-assisted propulsion systems. They explore how these systems reduce fuel costs and emissions, the challenges of innovating in shipping, and the growing role of regulation in driving adoption. Cristina shares insights on the transition from aeronautics to maritime, the importance of crew engagement, and the challenges of scaling hardware solutions in a software-driven world.

Key Points:

Wind-Assisted Propulsion Systems:
Bound4blue’s systems help shipowners improve operational efficiency by leveraging wind to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
Innovation in Shipping:
Bringing new technology to the maritime industry is difficult, but as regulations evolve, risks are being reduced, leading to greater adoption.
Regulatory Drivers:
Cristina explains how regulations like FuelEU are encouraging shipowners to embrace wind-assisted propulsion to meet fuel efficiency targets.
Challenges in Hardware Adoption:
Innovating in hardware, as opposed to software, faces unique obstacles, from funding to shipyard vendor listings.
Crew Engagement:
The success of wind-assisted systems relies on crew understanding and involvement, which Cristina emphasizes as key to operational success.
Class Societies’ Role:
Collaborations with class societies, such as Lloyd’s Register and DNV, have been crucial in validating the technology and easing industry adoption.
Growth and Future Trends:
With four systems operational and six in the pipeline, bound4blue is poised to scale, and Cristina discusses their future plans to expand globally.