Odfjell partners with bound4blue in wind-assisted tanker propulsion project

The deployment of this cutting-edge wind-assisted propulsion technology is set to revolutionise the industry, significantly reducing fuel consumption and addressing pollutant emissions.

The key element is bound4blue’s eSAIL system, which harnesses the potential of wind power, utilising a state-of-the-art wind-assisted propulsion known as a suction sail. By increasing the usage of wind energy to propel vessels, this solution offers a substantial reduction in a vessel’s carbon footprint.

With Odfjell’s commitment to decarbonisation initiatives evident in its 51% improved carbon intensity since 2008, the integration of bound4blue’s eSAIL system marks yet another significant milestone for the company’s fleet in achieving remarkable energy efficiency.

Odfjell manager projects Jan Opedal expressed the company’s enthusiasm for this partnership, stating, "We have been exploring sail technologies as a potential energy-efficiency measure for our fleet since 2020, and we are excited to take the next step by collaborating with bound4blue to implement its pioneering eSAIL system on one of our chemical tankers. This technology holds immense potential in reducing emissions by harvesting onboard energy and converting it directly into forward thrust."

The selection of bound4blue as its collaborator was based on an indepth study conducted by SSPA, which evaluated various wind-assisted propulsion systems for the Odfjell fleet.

The implementation of this pioneering installation is expected to be completed by 2024.

Odfjell vice president of technology, Erik Hjortland hailed this project as a significant milestone in the company’s pursuit of decarbonisation, "We all bear the responsibility to minimise resource usage, and Odfjell’s long-standing efforts in energy efficiency have made a substantial impact in reducing our fleet’s emissions.

“As we move forward with the installation of suction sails, we eagerly anticipate documenting further improvements in our sustainability journey," added Mr Hjortland.