Union Maritime, a UK shipowner, has launched its first wind-assisted vessel, Buran, equipped with Norsepower Rotor Sails™ to improve fuel efficiency.
The launch is a key step toward expanding the fleet to 34 wind-assisted ships, including six chemical tankers.
Once complete, Union Maritime will operate the world’s largest fleet using this technology, with rotor sails expected to generate up to 10 per cent of each vessel’s annual energy needs from wind.
The Rotor Sails™ on Buran are expected to reduce fuel consumption by 300 tonnes annually — over 2,000 barrels — and cut CO2 emissions by 940 tonnes each year.
The vessel has begun its maiden voyage from Taizhou, China, to Singapore.
Analysis with Ascenz Marorka showed that a wind-optimised route, rather than the shortest path, provided greater fuel savings and emissions reductions.
A wind-assisted vessel on this route cut CO2 emissions by 6.5 per cent, compared to a 3.1 per cent reduction on the shortest route.
The delivery of a sister vessel with a ‘wind-ready’ configuration allowed Union Maritime to model the benefits of wind propulsion technology on real routes.
According to Union Maritime, Buran qualifies for the maximum reward factor, ensuring compliance through 2030 without the need for costly alternative fuels.
Additionally, with wind propulsion reducing the vessel’s emissions, the company will need to purchase fewer EU Allowances (EUAs) under the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), resulting in cost savings.
Laurent Cadji, Managing Director of Union Maritime, said: “By adopting Norsepower Rotor Sails™, we are embracing a game-changing technology that not only delivers environmental gains but also unlocks significant commercial opportunities.
“This is about more than just reducing emissions ‒ it’s about positioning ourselves for success in a rapidly evolving industry and ensuring we stay ahead of regulatory changes, all while building a stronger, more resilient fleet for the future.”
In November 2024, bound4blue secured a contract with Maersk Tankers that will see 20 of the company’s type-approved eSAIL suction sails installed on five MR tankers in 2025 and 2026.
