Norsepower to equip rotor sails on two Idemitsu Tankers’ VLCCs after historic deal

Norsepower, a supplier of mechanical sails for large vessels, has signed an agreement with Idemitsu Tankers to equip two VLCC(Very Large Crude Carriers) supertankers with Norsepower Rotor Sail rotor sails. The vessels will be built at Japan Marine United Corporation and Nihon Shipyard, registering the first use of rotor sails on VLCCs, with delivery scheduled for the end of 2028.

The supply of rotor sails and VLCCs from Idemitsu Tankers

The agreement is part of Idemitsu ‘s commitment to reduce emissions and promote sustainable transportation technologies. In addition, the inclusion of the rotor sails is estimated to reduce fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, aiding in the decarbonization of shipping. The supertankers will also be designed to be compatible with future low-carbon fuels such as methanol.

Heikki Pöntynen, CEO of Norsepower, mentioned that this project, the first newbuild in Japan, highlights the confidence in the technology and its relevance to tankers. Norsepower has installed 22 units on different types of tankers and the integration of the technology on the VLCC is a major breakthrough.

The rotor sail is a modern version of the Flettner rotor, a rotating cylinder that uses the Magnus Effect to generate wind propulsion. Each installation has a digital control system to optimize performance, reducing fuel consumption and emissions depending on wind conditions, route and operations.

Source and photo: Norsepower