From now on, Wärtsilä will offer Rotor Sail systems as well as service these systems when needed. On 14 October, the technology company announced it has signed an agreement to this effect with Norsepower, the provider of this type of auxiliary wind propulsion systems.
Wärtsilä sees potential in wind-assisted propulsion as a means of reducing shipping’s carbon footprint. Reason for the company to seek out a partnership with Norsepower. This company on the other hand seeks to increase its scale and to profit from Wärtsilä’s global service network. The main target sectors include tankers, passenger ferries and cruise ships, as well as dry cargo vessels.
‘There is a rapid rise in demand for modern wind propulsion in shipping. We are, therefore, delighted by this partnership agreement, and the ability it gives us to support our customers no matter where they are sailing and operating our technology. It also comes at a time when the global shipping industry is looking for proven and economical solutions to reduce their carbon footprint,’ adds Norsepower’s CSO, Jukka Kuuskoski.
Rotor Sails
Since being launched in 2014, Norsepower Rotor Sails have been installed on three vessels, resulting in a reduction of their CO2 output by an estimated 5000 tons. A fourth installation is planned for 2020. The size and number of Rotor Sails to be installed are tailored to match the vessel’s operating profile, and to provide a versatile and safe solution.
Picture: Rotor Sails installed on the Maersk Pelican.
