Anemoi Marine Technologies, a UK-based Rotor Sail developer, wrote an exclusive editorial contribution for Singapore-based bunkering publication Manifold Times focusing on how Rotor Sails are the system of choice for bulk carrier owners looking for a wind-propulsion system that ensures their vessel can operate effectively at ports without impacting cargo operations:
Bulk carrier owners are increasingly adopting wind-assisted propulsion systems to enhance vessel efficiency and comply with greenhouse gas emissions regulations in the shipping sector. Rotor Sails are leading this trend, offering a simple, cost-effective solution that reduces reliance on the main engine, cuts fuel use and emissions, while maintaining consistent vessel speed.
Bulk carriers, with their ample deck space, stand to benefit the most, catching the attention of leading owners and charterers like Vale and Berge Bulk, both of which have announced partnerships with Anemoi Marine Technologies, the UK-based developer of Rotor Sails, to install wind-propulsion systems on their vessels to improve their efficiency and remain compliant with stringent emissions regulations, such as CII and EEXI/EEDI.
In November 2023, Vale announced plans to install five Anemoi Rotor Sails on the 400,000 dwt Sohar Max, the world’s largest ore carrier, aiming to save up to 3,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually and reduce fuel usage by 6%. Similarly, the 82,000 dwt Kamsarmax bulk carrier TR Lady expects a 10% reduction in annual fuel consumption following the installation of three Rotor Sails in August 2023.
Berge Bulk, based in Singapore, is fitting a 388,000 dwt Valemax with four Rotor Sails, combined with Anemoi’s bespoke folding deployment system. This move aligns with their fleet decarbonisation strategy, aiming to deploy deep-sea zero-emission vessels by 2030 and saving between 1,200-1,500 tonnes of fuel annually for each vessel.
However, while bulk carrier owners see the benefits of wind-propulsion tech both financially and environmentally, they are wary about ensuring the onboard systems do not impact cargo operations at ports and access to narrower waterways.

Luke McEwen, Technical Director at Anemoi
“Commercial operations are king for vessel owners,” said Luke McEwen, Technical Director at Anemoi. “If you’ve invested millions in a vessel, you want to see that return. If onboard technologies, such as wind-assisted propulsion systems, limit the amount of cargo you can take onboard or impact the speed at which you are able to load or unload the cargo, then that hits the vessel’s bottom line.
“This is where Rotor Sails have a crucial commercial advantage. They are relatively small in comparison to a standard vessel and can be moved either along or down the deck or even folded down to the horizontal to ensure that they do not interfere with cranes or other infrastructure during port operations at berth,” he added.
Real-world implications are vital to consider when deciding on a Rotor Sail configuration. “We have put a huge amount of work into understanding the different cargo operations for all kinds of bulk carriers to ensure the systems can work at as many ports and waterways as possible. We’ve worked with dozens of ports, looking at over 100 different berths to understand how the various configurations will impact port operations, including making sure cranes can still fully operate and how loading and unloading procedures could be affected.
“All of these questions make sure we know we’re designing the right product and we can advise the owner of the optimum number and configuration of Rotor Sails for a specific vessel,” he added.
Vessel owners must also consider the complexity of wind-propulsion technology installation and, once again, this is where the various options available on the market offer varying degrees of simplicity, with Rotor Sails proving the most viable option.
“The Rotor Sails we produce at Anemoi are relatively plug-and-play. The sails are light and can be easily fixed to the deck with little or no under-deck strengthening, while minimal new cabling is required to connect the systems to the main switchboard and bridge. Other wind-propulsion technologies that are much taller and heavier, requiring stronger foundations to secure them to the deck,” Luke noted.
“The reliability of the deployment systems is just as important as the Rotor Sails themselves, particularly for bulk carriers. We want to ensure the Rotor Sails can be moved out of the way quickly and efficiently ahead of any cargo operation to ensure a vessel can carry out its daily functions without any concerns and then back to their seagoing position for the vessel’s next voyage. This flexibility is crucial and another reason why our Rotor Sails have become so sought after,” he added.
Rotor Sails are hailed for their reliability in improving vessel efficiency and reducing fuel consumption. With a streamlined design and efficient infrastructure, they are emerging as the leading choice for bulk carrier owners seeking uninterrupted cargo operations and smooth daily vessel functions.
Related: Exclusive: Anemoi lays out financial and environmental benefits of Rotor Sails
Photo credit: Anemoi Marine Technologies
Published: 1 July, 2024