Innovative Zero-Emission Bulk Carriers Launching Soon
Berge Rederi is set to revolutionize maritime transport with the introduction of two zero-emission bulk carriers. These vessels, currently under construction in Nanjing, China, will feature advanced wind rotor sails from Norsepower. Expected to launch later this year, they will be the largest battery-powered bulk carriers in the world, significantly extending the range of battery-electric shipping.
Record-Breaking Design and Technology
The two new general cargo ships are designed to operate without emissions while transporting marble from Brønnøy and Visnes along Norway’s coast to the Omya Hustadmarmor production plant in Elnesvågen. Each vessel will have a deadweight tonnage of 13,250 dwt and a length of 426 feet (129.9 meters). They will cover a distance of approximately 230 nautical miles, setting a new record compared to the current longest battery-ferry route of just 15 nautical miles.
These vessels will be powered by a 23.5 MWh battery package, supplemented by shaft generators and two fixed Norsepower Rotor Sails, each measuring 24 x 4 meters (79 x 13 feet). Norsepower has optimized these sails for the harsh conditions of the Norwegian Sea, which can include snow, ice, rain, and high winds. Marcus Sannholm, Head of Sales at Norsepower, emphasized the importance of this project, stating that it was designed for the extreme conditions of the Northern Sea. He expressed pride in the partnership with Berge Rederi, highlighting the decade-long experience of Norsepower in tough sea conditions.
Collaboration with Marine Design and Consulting has been crucial in developing the vessels’ systems. Extensive hydrodynamic and structural studies have been conducted to optimize performance and ensure that the rotor sails deliver maximum savings and reliability. The use of high-tech materials will guarantee the rotors operate effectively in rough sea conditions.
Magne Berge, owner of Berge Rederi, expressed excitement about the project, noting that the combination of hybrid propulsion and Norsepower Rotor Sails aligns with their mission to minimize environmental impact while maintaining operational efficiency. The vessels are being built by Jiangsu SOHO Marine Heavy Industry Co., with the first expected to be delivered by the end of 2025, complete with rotor sails.
To support operations, charging stations will be established at the ports in Remman (Brønnøy) and Elnesvågen. An electric excavator and shore power connections will also be implemented at both ports to ensure fully emission-free cargo operations. Berge Rederi anticipates that the rotor sails will save an average of 339 kW per voyage, leading to an annual reduction of approximately 9,000 tons of CO2 and 200 tons of NOx emissions.
Based in Hitra, Norway, Berge Rederi operates a fleet of nine self-discharging bulk cargo vessels, ranging from 2,700 to 13,000 dwt. The project has garnered support from the Norwegian NOx Fund and Enova, with guidance from the GSP Service Centre for Green Fleet Renewal.
