The Propulsion and Future Fuels conference always attracts high calibre speakers and thought-provoking debate. The 46th edition, from 25 – 27 November in Hamburg, will be no exception.
The first two speakers to be announced are John Cooper, CEO of BAR Technologies and Lauren Eatwell is Head of WindWings® at BAR Technologies.
John will be speaking on the panel entitled, “Ship designs for new fuels: how do we most efficiently propel our ships? New regulations mean ships have to be more efficient, how are naval architects integrating emissions reduction into the design stage? ”.
John is a leader in sustainable maritime innovation. A chartered accountant with expertise in finance, commercial strategy, and high-performance industries, John has transformed BAR Technologies into a global frontrunner in maritime decarbonisation. His strategic vision and commercial acumen have driven the development and adoption of cutting-edge solutions that are redefining the future of sustainable shipping.
Under John’s leadership, BAR Technologies developed WindWings®, a revolutionary wind-assisted propulsion system that significantly reduces fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions. His ability to merge advanced engineering with strategic business thinking has secured key partnerships with global shipping leaders such as Berge Bulk, Union Maritime, and Cargill demonstrating the commercial viability of wind propulsion on a global scale.
John’s influence extends far beyond business operations. He actively engages with government, regulatory bodies, and industry leaders to shape maritime policy and strengthen the UK’s leadership in green shipping, showing his commitment to innovation and sustainability within the maritime industry.
Lauren Eatwell will be speaking in the session, “Harnessing the Power of Wind: Scaling up to meet demand. Tackling the challenges on standardisation, installation and regulation – how does the industry scale up to meet demand? ”. She is well placed to lead the discussions as she heads up the development, deployment, and commercial strategy of BAR Technologies’s pioneering wind propulsion system.
A central figure behind the WindWings ®, Lauren has played a key role in its design, classification, and real-world implementation positioning WindWings® as a transformative solution for decarbonising global shipping.
Her role spans the technical, operational and commercial, working closely with shipowners, operators, classification societies, shipyards, and regulators to ensure WindWings® is not only technically, but scalable, cost-effective and aligned with industry needs and environmental goals.
With a master’s in mechanical engineering from the University of Bath, Lauren has built a career focused on maritime innovation and sustainability. She is passionate about bridging the gap between breakthrough technology and practical application, helping the industry move beyond convention and towards real, measurable climate action.
In 2024, Lauren was named to the TIME100 Climate list, recognised globally as one of the most innovative leaders shaping the future of sustainable business.
To hear from these and a host of other influential speakers at this year’s Propulsion and Future Fuels book NOW
For all speaker interest and programme matters, contact:
Terri Metcalfe
Conference Producer
+44 1329 825335
TMetcalfe@mercatormedia.com
