NS United Kaiun Kaisha and Vale International have agreed to equip the 400,000dwt-type very large ore carrier (VLOC), NSU TUBARAO, with Anemoi Marine Technologies’ rotor sails.
The installation is planned for September 2025.
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Rotor sails are devices that generate propulsion from wind power, potentially reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by 6-12%.
NSU TUBARAO has been under a long-term contract with Vale since its delivery in September 2020.
Measuring 361m in length, 65m in beam, 30.2m in depth, and 23m in draft, the vessel has a deadweight of approximately 399,717mt and a gross tonnage of 197,453.
NS United has been proactively seeking ways to enhance vessel efficiency and cut greenhouse gas emissions by adopting energy-saving devices like rotor sails and considering a shift to next-generation fuels.
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By GlobalDataAnemoi Marine Technologies CEO Kim Diederichsen said: “The installation of Anemoi’s Rotor Sails on NSU TUBARAO, one of the largest vessels in the global fleet, marks another significant step forward for sustainable shipping.
“It’s heartening to see industry leaders like NS United and Vale embracing innovative solutions to meet maritime’s environmental challenges. This latest project once again underscores the importance of collaboration in driving maritime decarbonisation.”
The rotor sails project is part of Vale’s efforts under the Ecoshipping programme, which also includes a project for incorporating multi-fuel tanks on iron ore carriers.
Vale’s commitment to the maritime sector’s decarbonisation aligns with the International Maritime Organization’s goals and the Paris Agreement.
Aiming for a 15% reduction in scope three emissions by 2035, Vale’s Ecoshipping programme, established in partnership with shipowners, focuses on adopting technologies to lower greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) emissions.
Since 2018, Vale has operated the second-generation Valemaxes and, from 2019, the Guaibamaxes, which are among the most efficient carriers globally.
In March 2023, Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL) partnered with Vale for the installation of Norsepower Rotor Sails on an in-service Capesize bulk carrier.
