bound4blue completes first eSAIL® installation under Maersk
In a significant advancement for sustainable shipping, bound4blue and Maersk Tankers have successfully installed eSAIL® units on the Maersk Trieste. This milestone marks the first phase of a larger agreement to equip five medium-range tankers with a total of 20 innovative suction sails. The collaboration, which began with a contract signed in December 2024, represents bound4blue’s largest order to date and underscores the industry’s shift towards greener technologies.
Innovative Technology for a Greener Future
Bound4blue’s eSAILs® are designed to harness wind power effectively. These autonomous sails generate lift by drawing air across an aerodynamically optimized surface, achieving lift up to seven times greater than traditional rigid sails of similar size. This technology is tailored for individual vessels, allowing for significant reductions in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions. As a result, vessels equipped with eSAILs® can improve their Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) ratings, which is crucial for compliance with evolving maritime regulations.
The installation process for the Maersk Trieste was executed in two phases to enhance efficiency and minimize downtime. Initial preparations took place at Yiu Lian Shipyard in Shenzhen, China, where deck modifications were made. The vessel then moved to EDR Shipyard in Belgium, where the eSAIL units were installed using a streamlined ‘plug-and-play’ method. This approach not only simplifies the integration of the sails but also supports conventional shipyard workflows, ensuring that retrofitting can be completed swiftly.
José Miguel Bermúdez, CEO and co-founder of bound4blue, emphasized the importance of this development, stating that it represents a pivotal moment for the acceptance of wind power in the maritime industry. He noted that the eSAILs® are specifically designed to meet the unique challenges faced by tankers, allowing for safe and cost-effective wind propulsion without altering operational profiles.
Commitment to Emission Reduction
Claus Grønborg, Chief Investment Officer at Maersk Tankers, highlighted the necessity of tangible actions in reducing emissions within the tanker sector. He stated that the implementation of advanced energy-efficient technologies, such as wind-assisted propulsion systems, is essential for achieving more energy-efficient voyages. This initiative not only benefits customers but also aligns with compliance requirements under frameworks like FuelEU Maritime and the EU Emissions Trading System.
Bound4blue’s DNV Type Approved technology is versatile, designed for both new builds and retrofits across various ship types, including tankers, bulk carriers, and ferries. The installation process is adaptable, allowing for quick fittings that can be completed in less than a day if needed. This flexibility is crucial for shipowners looking to enhance their fleets’ sustainability without extensive downtime.
The partnership between bound4blue and Maersk Tankers is part of a broader trend in the maritime industry, where wind propulsion is transitioning from a niche innovation to a mainstream strategy for decarbonization. This shift is driven by stricter regulations, increasing fuel costs, and a growing confidence in the commercial viability of wind technology. As Bermúdez concluded, this project is not just another installation; it is a demonstration that practical solutions for decarbonization are already available and ready to make a significant impact.
