bound4blue has signed a landmark agreement with Maersk Tankers, marking its largest wind-assisted propulsion system (WAPS) contract to date. The deal involves the installation of 20 state-of-the-art eSAIL® suction sails across five medium-range (MR) tankers operated by Maersk Tankers. This significant partnership is part of Maersk Tankers’ broader strategy to enhance fleet sustainability and reduce carbon emissions.
Pioneering Wind Propulsion for Tanker Fleets
The retrofit contract includes the installation of four eSAIL® units on each of the following Maersk Tankers vessels: Maersk Tacoma, Maersk Tampa, Maersk Tangier, Maersk Teesport, and Maersk Tokyo. Scheduled for completion in 2025 and 2026, the deployment of these 26-meter sails is expected to deliver substantial fuel savings and reduce CO2 emissions, helping the vessels comply with CII and FuelEU regulations.
The agreement, facilitated in collaboration with green technology catalyst Njord, followed a comprehensive assessment of various wind-assisted propulsion systems to identify the most effective solution for the MR tanker fleet. Njord’s expertise played a key role in selecting the autonomous eSAIL® technology, which promises enhanced environmental and commercial performance for Maersk Tankers.
Cutting-Edge eSAIL® Technology
The eSAIL® suction sails are designed to generate lift by drawing air across their aerodynamic surface, providing significant propulsive power. This innovative approach reduces overall fuel consumption, lowers operational costs (OPEX), and minimizes emissions. The technology’s autonomous operation and low maintenance requirements make it an attractive option for large tanker vessels operating in diverse and challenging maritime environments.
José Miguel Bermúdez, CEO and co-founder of bound4blue, highlighted the strategic importance of the deal, stating, “This contract represents a key milestone for bound4blue. The trust Maersk Tankers has placed in our eSAIL® technology underscores its proven capabilities in reducing fuel consumption and emissions, while contributing to regulatory compliance. We are excited to collaborate with Maersk Tankers in their journey towards decarbonization.”
Expanding Adoption of Wind-Assisted Propulsion
This partnership with Maersk Tankers caps a successful year for bound4blue, which has seen a surge in orders from prominent industry players such as Klaveness Combination Carriers, Eastern Pacific Shipping, Odfjell, Marflet Marine, Amasus, and Louis Dreyfus Company. The growing demand for wind-assisted propulsion solutions reflects a broader industry trend towards adopting green technologies to meet stringent emissions targets and enhance vessel efficiency.
About Maersk Tankers
Maersk Tankers, part of A.P. Moller Holding, operates one of the world’s largest tanker fleets, providing comprehensive commercial management and shipowner solutions. Founded in 1928, Maersk Tankers leverages its century-long expertise to enhance the economic and environmental performance of its managed vessels. Headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark, Maersk Tankers employs approximately 300 people.
About Njord
Njord is a key strategic partner in the maritime industry, championing the adoption of innovative efficiency technologies to accelerate the sector’s energy transition. The company’s expertise in green solutions helps maritime operators across various segments, including container shipping, bulk, tanker, and gas carriers, achieve sustainable results.
About bound4blue
Founded in 2014, bound4blue specializes in automated wind-assisted propulsion systems designed as turnkey solutions for shipowners aiming to reduce fuel costs and emissions. The company’s flagship eSAIL® system is validated for various vessel types, including tankers, bulk carriers, Ro-Ros, cruises, and gas carriers. With headquarters in Cantabria, Spain, and additional offices in Barcelona and Singapore, bound4blue has rapidly expanded its presence in the maritime sector.
Source bound4blue