Wind power is revolutionizing the shipping industry, with modern technologies upgrading traditional sailing methods. Norsepower, a Finnish maritime tech company, has developed an improved version of the classic Flettner rotor, which they describe as a “digital-era version.” These rotor sails are being implemented on existing ships as a fuel-saving solution that reduces emissions.
The Norsepower Rotor Sail is an automatic system consisting of sails at various heights, a control system for adjusting thrust, a control panel for the captain, and a low-voltage electrical power supply. The cylindrical rotors on the deck rotate using electric power, combining wind power to generate a more powerful thrust than traditional sailing. This system can measure wind speed and direction in real-time, automatically launching the rotor sails when it will reduce emissions. This automation greatly increases efficiency.
What sets the Norsepower Rotor Sail apart from other modern rotor sails is its sustainability. The rotors are partially made from recycled plastic bottles, with over 340,000 bottles used in their production. The Oldendorff vessel will be equipped with three rotor sails measuring 24 x 4 meters. This proven technology has already accumulated over 310,000 operating hours on various ships, resulting in a reduction of over 21,000 tons of CO2 emissions.
The benefits of this cutting-edge technology extend beyond bulk carriers and tankers. Scandlines, a prestigious ferry operator, plans to install the Norsepower Rotor Sail on its hybrid M/F Berlin ferry in 2022. This installation aims to further reduce emissions on the ferry operating between Germany and Denmark. Wind power is transforming the shipping industry, providing sustainable and efficient alternatives for reducing emissions.
