bound4blue completes eSAIL® installation on EPS tanker with

Eastern Pacific Shipping (EPS) has made significant strides in maritime sustainability by installing bound4blue’s innovative eSAIL® suction sails on its tanker vessel, Pacific Sentinel. This installation took place at Besiktas Shipyard in Turkey during a scheduled drydocking. The addition of three 22-meter eSAILs® is expected to reduce the vessel’s energy consumption by approximately 10%, thereby lowering operational costs and emissions.

Streamlined Installation Process

The installation of the eSAILs® on the Pacific Sentinel marks a pivotal moment for EPS as it embarks on its journey toward wind-assisted propulsion. This initiative is part of the company’s broader decarbonization strategy. The installation process was notably efficient, completed in under a day for each unit, thanks to a fast-track, single-stop approach. Preparatory work was conducted prior to the drydocking, allowing for minimal downtime.

David Ferrer, Co-founder and CTO of bound4blue, emphasized the importance of collaboration in achieving this swift installation. He stated, “We’re committed to helping shipping companies, such as EPS, embrace clean, proven, wind power in the simplest, most cost-efficient manner.” The installation combined essential groundwork, such as fitting pedestals and welding, with the simultaneous preparation of the sails. This approach significantly reduced installation time and ensured that the vessel was ready for operation without extending its stay at the shipyard.

Eastern Pacific Shipping makes first wind propulsion move with bound4blue eSAILs®

The eSAIL® technology offers several advantages, particularly for medium-range tankers like the Pacific Sentinel. Its design allows for non-explosion-proof units, which simplifies the installation process and minimizes capital expenditure. The sails are engineered to deliver high performance without the need for large structures, making them compatible with the vessel’s existing air draft. This innovation provides an accessible pathway for various shipping segments to harness the benefits of wind power, aligning with both commercial and environmental goals.

The successful installation of the eSAILs® also involved collaboration with the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), ensuring compliance with rigorous safety and classification standards. This collaboration was crucial in achieving a ‘wind-assisted’ notation, which verifies the structural integration of the sails and aligns with regulatory frameworks like the EU ETS and FuelEU Maritime.