Former Wärtsilä manager joins Skysails

Mr Gerdes, who holds a master degree in ship operations technology, was previously with Wartsila, culminating after 20 years in responsibility for strategic customer relations and two-stroke-engine spare parts, which included heading an interdepartmental service team for energy optimisation and slow steaming.

Mr Gerdes said: “After more than two decades of working with prime movers that emit huge amounts of emissions, I’ve been concentrating in recent years on technologies and methods to reduce both fuel consumption and emissions – one example being slow steaming and the related engine modifications. And because I’m convinced that the shipping industry must change course towards greater efficiency, the move to SkySaiIs – a company recognised as a leader when it comes to systems that make using energy more efficient – was the next logical step for me.”

In addition to its towing-kite -propulsion assistance system, SkySails produces the Performance Monitor, a sensors-based software system for optimising maritime operations and improving general ship energy efficiency.

“I believe in SkySails’ products. With the Performance Monitor we provide our customers with relevant information enabling energy efficient ship operations. This in turn lets us help our customers quickly realise the benefits that come with their efforts in this direction, which are not only documented, but reduce emissions and save money as well. What’s more, our wind propulsion systems offer ship owners the opportunity of using the wind energy that’s out there free for taking. After all, the wind is the only source of renewable energy that is usable and makes sense for cargo ships on the high seas. This is why the shipping industry will be unable to navigate its way around this issue over the long term,” said Mr Gerdes