Anemoi Marine Technologies completed the installation of five Rotor Sails onboard the 400,000 dwt Very Large Ore Carrier (VLOC), Sohar Max, making it the largest vessel to receive wind propulsion technology to date.
Sohar Max is a first-generation Valemax, built in 2012 in China’s Rongsheng shipyard.
Rotor Sails
The project showcased the global collaboration between Brazilian mining giant Vale S.A., Omani shipowner Asyad, and UK-based Rotor Sail provider Anemoi.
The five 35 m tall, 5 m diametre Rotor Sails were retrofitted onboard Sohar Max at the COSCO Zhoushan shipyard in China, in October 2024. In addition, Anemoi has installed its bespoke folding deployment system, which will enable sails to be folded vertically to mitigate any impacts on the vessel’s cargo handling operations.
6% fuel savings
Sohar Max has just completed a voyage to Tubarao, during which the rotor sail test period began
With the installation of the Rotor Sails, it is expected that Sohar Max will be able to reduce its fuel consumption by up to 6% and cut carbon emissions by up to 3,000 tonnes annually.
Sohar Max has just completed a voyage to Tubarao, during which the rotor sail test period began and testing will continue on future voyages.
Decarbonisation of maritime transport
“Since 2010, Vale has been operating with 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,” says Vale’s Director of Shipping, Rodrigo Bermelho.
“This project reinforces this tradition of Vale’s shipping area of investing in innovation and stimulating the modernisation of the fleet to reduce emissions, in partnership with shipowners.”
Wind energy
“This is an exciting landmark project for Anemoi, and wind propulsion in general, as it demonstrates the significant impact wind energy has on even the largest vessels. Installing our Rotor Sails on this scale is a proud moment, showcasing our award-winning technology on another ore carrier,” said Nick Contopoulos, Chief Production & Partnerships Officer of Anemoi Marine Technologies.
“We are thrilled to be a part of Vale and Asyad’s ongoing sustainability plans and to support their efforts in driving decarbonisation across the maritime industry.”
Reducing carbon emissions
The project is expected to achieve a significant reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions
“We extend our deepest thanks to all our partners who made this retrofit possible. Together, we’re advancing meaningful change and driving the industry towards a greener future,” he added.
In October 2024, Vale announced it is also set to install Anemoi’s Rotor Sails onboard the 400,000 dwt VLOC NSU Tubarao, which is owned by NS United Kaiun Kaisha. The project, which is due for completion in September 2025, is expected to achieve a significant reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions.
CII and EEDI/EEXI
These projects with Vale are the latest in a series of ongoing installation projects Anemoi has with some of the world’s biggest shipowners and operators, which are looking to harness wind energy to increase the efficiency of their vessels by reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions.
Rotor Sails are being increasingly embraced by shipowners who are aiming to achieve net-zero emissions and enhance the energy performance of vessels. Rotor Sails is a compact technology that offers a large thrust force to propel ships, helping them comply with pivotal international emission reduction benchmarks such as CII and EEDI/EEXI.