Odfjell has successfully installed four 22-meter-tall eSAILs® on its chemical tanker, Bow Olympus, as part of its commitment to wind-assisted propulsion technology (WAPS). The installation, carried out at EDR Antwerp Shipyard on March 10-11, was the final step in a carefully planned integration process designed to ensure compatibility with the tanker’s complex deck layout and air draft limitations.
The project was a collaborative effort between Odfjell, bound4blue, Royal Roos, and EDR Antwerp Shipyard, ensuring a seamless, time- and cost-effective installation completed within just two days.
Decarbonization Through Wind-Assisted Propulsion
The eSAIL® technology, developed by bound4blue, is expected to deliver significant fuel savings and increase energy efficiency on deep-sea voyages. The system harnesses wind power directly, reducing reliance on alternative fuels like green ammonia and methanol, which require large amounts of electricity to produce.
Odfjell VP of Technology Erik Hjortland emphasized the advantages of wind propulsion:
“Sails, on the other hand, harnesses wind power locally and directly, with a much lower energy loss—around ten percent from sail to propeller. This allows the renewable wind energy to be used more efficiently directly on board the ship. It is an elegant use of resources and the main reason why I am so passionate about this solution.”
The Bow Olympus is set to embark on its first transatlantic voyage under sail power, from Europe to Texas, with real-time data collection to evaluate the technology’s impact on energy efficiency.
Commercial, Environmental, and Regulatory Impact
Odfjell’s decision to install eSAILs® followed an in-depth study by the RISE Research Institute, confirming the technology’s high efficiency and payback potential. The fully autonomous system optimizes airflow across the sails, creating additional propulsion and reducing fuel consumption.
David Ferrer, CTO of bound4blue, highlighted the mechanical simplicity of eSAILs® and their cost-effective installation:
“Installing a WPS on a vessel like this can present challenges due to ATEX zones and air draft limitations. However, the mechanical simplicity of the eSAIL® technology provides an effective solution, enabling the use of non-EX-proof units. This not only reduces CAPEX but also streamlines the installation process. We’re delighted to set sail with Odfjell.”
Odfjell has already achieved a 53% reduction in carbon intensity since 2008, equivalent to removing 21 zero-emission vessels from the fleet. The company expects further emissions reductions through wind propulsion, aligning with Fuel EU Maritime regulations, EU ETS, and CII rating improvements.
Future Plans for Wind Propulsion
Following the performance evaluation of Bow Olympus, Odfjell plans to expand eSAIL® installations across more vessels, reinforcing its long-term strategy for decarbonizing chemical tanker operations.
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Source: ODFJELL
