Anemoi in largest wind propulsion project yet

The retrofit was a result of collaboration between Brazilian mining company Vale, Omani shipowner Asyad, and UK-based Rotor Sail provider Anemoi. The five Rotor Sails, each measuring 35 metres in height and 5 metres in diameter, were installed at COSCO Zhoushan shipyard in China in October 2024. Anemoi also equipped the vessel with its folding deployment system, enabling the sails to tilt to mitigate any impact on cargo operations.

The installation is expected to deliver a reduction in fuel consumption of up to 6%, equating to an annual decrease of approximately 3,000 tonnes of carbon emissions. Following the retrofit, Sohar Max recently completed a voyage to Tubarao, where initial testing of the Rotor Sails began. Performance monitoring will continue during future operations.

Rodrigo Bermelho, Director of Shipping at Vale, emphasised the company’s long-standing commitment to efficient shipping and its role in promoting wind energy solutions. “Since 2010, Vale has been operating highly efficient ships and, in recent years, has fostered initiatives for the adoption of wind energy, which will play a central role in the decarbonisation of maritime transport of iron ore. This project reinforces Vale’s tradition of investing in innovation and modernising the fleet to reduce emissions, in partnership with shipowners,” he said.

Nick Contopoulos, Chief Production & Partnerships Officer at Anemoi Marine Technologies, described the project as a milestone for wind propulsion. “This is an exciting landmark project for Anemoi and wind propulsion in general, as it demonstrates the significant impact wind energy can have, even on the largest vessels. Installing our Rotor Sails on this scale is a proud moment, showcasing our award-winning technology on another ore carrier. We are thrilled to support Vale and Asyad’s sustainability initiatives and help drive decarbonisation across the maritime industry.”

He expressed gratitude to the partners involved, adding, “Together, we’re advancing meaningful change and driving the industry towards a greener future.”

Vale has also announced plans to install Anemoi’s Rotor Sails on the 400,000 dwt VLOC NSU Tubarao, owned by NS United Kaiun Kaisha. This installation, scheduled for completion in September 2025, is anticipated to achieve similar reductions in fuel consumption and carbon emissions.

These projects form part of a series of ongoing Rotor Sail installations as shipowners and operators seek to harness wind energy to improve vessel efficiency. Rotor Sails are increasingly being adopted to help meet key international emissions reduction requirements, such as the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) and Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI/EEXI).