Anemoi Rotor Sail installation marks largest yet wind-propulsion project

Rotor Sails, originally known as Flettner Rotors, are an energy saving technology for the shipping industry comprised of tall cylinders which, when driven to spin, harness the renewable power of the wind to propel ships.  This additional thrust significantly reduces fuel consumption and emissions.  

The five 35 m tall, 5 m diameter Rotor Sails were retrofitted on the vessel – which is operated by Brazilian mining company Vale - at the COSCO Zhoushan shipyard in China along with  a  bespoke folding deployment system, which will enable to sails to be folded from vertical to mitigate any impacts on the vessel’s cargo handling operations.

It is expected that the sails will reduce the vessel’s fuel consumption by up to 6% and cut carbon emissions by up to 3,000 tonnes annually. Sohar Max has just completed a voyage to Tubarao, during which the rotor sail test period began and testing will continue on future voyages.

 “This is an exciting landmark project for Anemoi, and wind propulsion in general, as it demonstrates the significant impact wind energy has on even the largest vessels. Installing our Rotor Sails on this scale is a proud moment, showcasing our award-winning technology on another ore carrier,” said Nick Contopoulos, Chief Production & Partnerships Officer of Anemoi Marine Technologies. “We are thrilled to be a part of Vale and Asyad’s ongoing sustainability plans and to support their efforts in driving decarbonisation across the maritime industry.”

In October 2024, Vale announced it is also set to install Anemoi’s Rotor Sails onboard the 400,000 dwt VLOC NSU Tubarao, which is owned by NS United Kaiun Kaisha. The project, which is due for completion in September 2025, is expected to achieve significant reduction of fuel consumption and carbon emissions.

These projects with Vale are the latest in a series of ongoing installation projects Anemoi has with some of the world’s biggest shipowners and operators.