Nor-Shipping: eCSOV next-generation ships and wind-propulsion technology honoured

UK-based offshore shipowner Bibby Marine has won the Next Generation Ship Award and Spain’s maritime technology group bound4blue has won the Ocean Solutions Award at Norway’s largest shipping trade show, Nor-Shipping.

According to judges, "Both winners were chosen for their outstanding innovation, showcasing maritime’s commitment to building a more sustainable, resilient and future-proof industry".

Bibby revealed in mid-January 2025 that it would be building an all-electric, or eCSOV. And Spain-based start-up windpower specialist bound4blue has seen multiple contracts for its technology, notably from Louis Dreyfus Armateurs which first confirmed in May 2022 that it had agreed to have three of the suction sail devices installed on one of the shipowner’s 100-strong fleet. The company has also had its technology type-approved by Norwegian class society DNV. 

Nor-Shipping director Sidsel Norvik congratulated the winners, praising the “amazing breadth of innovation” on display.

"This year’s winners are fantastic examples of what it means to be future-proof – our main theme for this, the 60th anniversary Nor-Shipping. Both Bibby Marine and bound4blue have developed solutions that don’t just respond to today’s operational needs, but proactively anticipate the direction this industry must go – towards cleaner, smarter, and more collaborative ways of working. We are proud to celebrate their vision and impact at Nor-Shipping 2025, and applaud all the shortlisted companies for helping push the maritime world towards more sustainable, profitable horizons."