Update: Alfa Laval and Wallenius finalise wind propulsion JV

Wallenius Marine chief operating officer Niclas Dahl has been chosen as the managing director of AlfaWall Oceanbird, and the new venture will focus primarily on the vessel’s technical sailing aspects, such as the vessel control system that will steer the wing sail operation.

“COP26 put the need for accessible technology in the spotlight,” Mr Dahl said. “Decarbonizing shipping is imperative, and wind is a free source of power with a substantial role to play, and minimum need of infrastructure.”

Alfa Laval marine division president Peter Nielsen said the wing sails will be 80-m tall and retractable. “Besides adjusting to catch the wind, they can be lowered to pass under bridges, to handle harsh weather conditions or for maintenance. Because they will interact with the hull in a sophisticated way, they will also require intelligent control,” Mr Nielsen said.

The new business venture builds on a prior collaboration between the two companies in the ballast water treatment market, PureBallast.

Riviera Maritime Media’s Marine Propulsion Webinar Week is being held 26 July 2021 – use this link for more details and to register