WIND propulsion systems provider Norsepower and Norwegian shipowner Berge Rederi have signed a deal to equip two general cargo carriers with Norsepower Rotor Sails.
The 130-metre vessels will each be equipped with two rotor sails, specially optimised for harsh conditions like snow, ice, rain, and high winds often encountered along the North Sea routes.
Designed with a goal of maximum efficiency and minimal environmental impacts, the ships will feature battery packs and shaft generators, enabling short-distance hybrid-electric operation.
The newbuild vessels were designed by Marine Design and Consulting AS (MDC) and constructed by Jiangsu SOHO Marine Heavy Industry Co., and will be delivered with the rotor sails already installed. The first vessel is expected to launch by the end of 2025, according to Norsepower.
Finnish rotor sail designer Norsepower has collaborated closely with Berge Rederi and the renowned Norwegian ship designer MDC to integrate its emission-reducing products into the vessels’ design.
When compared to similar vessels operating on the same trade route, significant fuel savings and emission reductions are expected. Through extensive hydrodynamic and structural studies, the teams optimised the vessels’ performance and ensured that the Norsepower Rotor Sails would deliver maximum savings and reliability.
Marcus Sannholm, head of sales at Norsepower said, “This project was designed for the extreme conditions of the Northern Sea, and we are proud that Berge Rederi chose Norsepower as their partner”.
“Our product has been in use at tough sea conditions for more than a decade now, which enables us to create these kinds of partnerships with innovative, market leading companies.
“By working with Berge Rederi and MDC from the design phase, we’ve ensured that these vessels will set a new benchmark for sustainability and efficiency in their class.”
Based on the island of Hitra, Norway, Berge Rederi operates a distinguished fleet of self-discharging bulk cargo vessels ranging from 3700 to 13,000 DWT.
“We’re excited to partner with Norsepower and MDC on this transformative project,” said Magne Berge, owner of Berge Rederi.
“The combination of hybrid propulsion and Norsepower Rotor Sails aligns perfectly with our mission to minimise our environmental footprint while maintaining the highest standards of operational efficiency.”
Operating along the Norwegian coast, the vessels are expected to benefit from optimal wind conditions in the North Sea, where Norsepower says its Rotor Sails are proven to perform exceptionally well.
The robust design of the sails with the latest high-tech materials will ensure reliable operation in the rough sea conditions characteristic of the region, Norsepower said, further enhancing their suitability for this trade route.