Revolutionizing Shipping: Norsepower Partners with Berge Rederi to Equip Cargo Carriers with Rotor Sails

Finland’s wind propulsion systems provider Norsepower and Norway-headquartered shipowner Berge Rederi have joined forces in a groundbreaking collaboration to enhance the sustainability of general cargo carriers. The partnership involves fitting two environmentally friendly vessels with advanced Norsepower rotor sails.

The innovative rotor sails, measuring 24m x 4m each, have been specially optimized to withstand harsh conditions such as snow, ice, rain, and high winds prevalent along the Northern Sea routes, which have become key arteries in global shipping. These sails will be installed on newbuildings designed by Marine Design and Consulting AS (MDC) and constructed by Jiangsu SOHO Marine Heavy Industry in China. The first vessel, equipped with rotor sails, is expected to set sail by the end of 2025.

Aside from the rotor sails, the 130-meter-long cargo carriers will feature cutting-edge battery packs and shaft generators to facilitate short-distance hybrid-electric operation. The integration of these technologies is anticipated to deliver significant environmental and operational benefits, including fuel savings and reduced emissions.

Norsepower, in close collaboration with Berge Rederi and MDC, has meticulously integrated its emission-reducing solutions into the vessel design, optimizing performance through comprehensive hydrodynamic and structural studies. Marcus Sannholm, Head of Sales at Norsepower, expressed confidence in the partnership, stating, “Our product’s proven performance in challenging sea conditions over the past decade enables us to forge such innovative collaborations. By working closely with Berge Rederi and MDC from the design phase, we are setting a new standard for sustainability and efficiency in this class of vessels.”

Magne Berge, owner of Berge Rederi, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the alignment of hybrid propulsion and Norsepower Rotor Sails with the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship and operational excellence.

Norsepower’s rotor sails have been gaining traction in the maritime industry, with the explosion-proof version of the 28m x 4m sails receiving approval from the Norwegian classification society DNV in September 2024. In a significant milestone, the Borealis-chartered VLGC Oceanus Aurora was equipped with custom-designed rotor sails in November of the same year. Additionally, the Oldendorff Chinook, a Post Panamax bulk carrier, was fitted with three rotor sails in collaboration with Oldendorff Carriers, marking a pivotal step in advancing wind propulsion in shipping.