In collaboration with bound4blue, a leader in wind-assisted propulsion technology, Odfjell is set to install the innovative eSAIL® system on a chemical tanker, marking a historic milestone as the first tanker worldwide to adopt this pioneering technology.
bound4blue’s eSAIL® system harnesses cutting-edge wind-assisted propulsion, specifically the suction sail technology, which utilizes wind power to significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
Odfjell has long been committed to decarbonization initiatives, achieving a 51% reduction in carbon intensity since 2008. The deployment of bound4blue’s eSAIL® system underscores Odfjell’s ongoing efforts to enhance energy efficiency across its fleet with innovative solutions.
“Since 2020, we have explored sail technologies as a means to enhance energy efficiency within our fleet, and we are excited to partner with bound4blue to integrate their pioneering eSAIL® system on one of our chemical tankers,” stated Jan Opedal, Manager Projects at Odfjell. “This technology holds immense potential to reduce emissions by capturing onboard energy and converting it directly into forward thrust.”
Redefining Maritime Innovation: Merging Tradition with Sustainable Solutions
Odfjell’s collaboration with bound4blue aims to broaden access to eSAIL® technology within the tanker shipping sector, advancing industry-wide decarbonization efforts. The decision to partner with bound4blue follows a comprehensive evaluation by SSPA, examining various Wind Assisted Propulsion Systems (WAPS) for the Odfjell fleet.
“This project signifies a significant leap in our commitment to decarbonization. As the first tanker company to trial suction-sail technology, we demonstrate our leadership in innovation and sustainability within the shipping sector,” affirmed Erik Hjortland, Vice President of Technology at Odfjell. “We all bear a responsibility to minimize resource usage, and Odfjell’s extensive efforts in energy efficiency have substantially curtailed our fleet’s emissions. Our journey continues, and we anticipate further advancements with the implementation of suction sails.”
“We are excited to collaborate with Odfjell on our inaugural installation in the tanker segment. They are trailblazers in innovation and sustainability, setting benchmarks for decarbonization in the industry. We are delighted they have selected our technology following rigorous evaluation, validating our strategic direction. The collaboration with their open and collaborative team has been exceptional, and we are confident that our joint efforts will deliver significant value to the industry,” said David Ferrer, CTO of bound4blue.
The pioneering installation is scheduled for completion in 2024.
About bound4blue
bound4blue develops automated wind-assisted propulsion systems for shipowners seeking to reduce fuel costs and emissions. The eSAIL® system, their flagship technology, offers a validated solution for sustainable maritime transport. Founded in 2014, bound4blue is headquartered in Cantabria, Spain, with offices in Barcelona and Singapore.
For more information, visit: www.bound4blue.com.
