Japanese Coal Carrier with Rotor Sail Technology Completes Maiden Voyage Successfully

A coal carrier operated by Japan’s Iino Lines and J-Power recently completed its first voyage with a rotor sail manufactured by Norsepower. This marks a significant step in the Japanese shipping industry’s efforts to reduce emissions and embrace innovative technologies. The rotor sail, installed on the bulker Yodohmie, is one of the first of its kind on a large bulk carrier. Other companies, including Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Tufton, U-Ming, Vale, BHP, and Berge Bulk, have also started projects utilizing rotor sails as a means to cut fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

The Yodohmie, an 85,000 dwt vessel built in Japan in 2016, had the rotor sail installed in December 2024. Measuring 24 x 4 meters, the rotor sail is expected to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by 6 to 10 percent. This modern adaptation of wind propulsion harnesses the Magnus effect, utilizing AI technology to control the rotation, direction, and speed of the rotor based on real-time meteorological data. The successful completion of the first trip in January 2025 showcases the potential of rotor sails in reducing environmental impact.

Iino Lines has equipped a second vessel with a Norsepower Rotor Sail, following the fitting of a rotor on the Oceanus Aurora, a very large gas carrier. J-Power’s collaboration with Norsepower represents their first venture into wind-assisted propulsion. Norsepower, a company founded in 2012, has already completed 30 rotor installations on 17 vessels and plans to install an additional 42 units on 15 ships within the next 18 months. This growing support for wind-assisted propulsion highlights a shift towards more sustainable practices in the commercial shipping industry.

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