In a significant stride towards greener shipping, Anemoi Marine Technologies Ltd. has partnered with U-Ming Marine Transport Ltd. to install four innovative Rotor Sails on one of U-Ming’s impressive 325,000 DWT Very Large Ore Carriers (VLOC). This exciting development, announced recently by Anemoi, marks a pivotal step in harnessing renewable energy for maritime transport, with the installation project expected to wrap up by the end of 2025.
The groundbreaking vessel retrofit is anticipated to yield substantial fuel and emissions savings of approximately 10-12%, particularly on deep-sea routes connecting China with Brazil, South Africa, and Australia. This is particularly vital as the shipping industry faces increasing pressure to reduce its environmental footprint. By outfitting the vessel with four of Anemoi’s towering cylindrical sails—standing at 35 meters tall and 5 meters in diameter—U-Ming is taking bold action to enhance its fleet’s energy efficiency.
One of the unique features of the Rotor Sails is Anemoi’s bespoke folding deployment system. This clever technology allows the sails to be folded down from their vertical positions, which minimizes any impact on air draught and cargo handling operations. It’s this kind of innovative thinking that positions Rotor Sails as an appealing option for ship owners aiming to comply with international emission reduction targets.
The momentum for Rotor Sails is building, following successfully completed installations on various vessels. For example, in June 2023, Anemoi installed four Rotor Sails with Rail Deployment Systems on an 82,000 DWT Kamsarmax bulk carrier. A subsequent retrofit involving four folding Rotor Sails was completed on a 388,000 DWT Valemax ore carrier in May 2024.
Rotor Sails, also known as ‘Flettner Rotors’, utilize vertical cylinders to capture wind energy, generating additional thrust while significantly decreasing harmful emissions. This makes them an increasingly popular choice among shipowners who are dedicated to sustainability and are actively pursuing innovations that align with global initiatives like the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) and Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI/EEXI).
As the shipping industry moves towards a net-zero future, initiatives like these reflect a growing recognition of the importance of sustainable practices and technologies. By embracing renewable energy solutions, companies like Anemoi and U-Ming are not only enhancing their operational efficiency but also leading the charge towards a more environmentally friendly maritime sector.
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