Capesize bulker gets world-first rotor sails

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) has installed a pair of Norsepower’s Rotor Sails onboard 2014-built 200,000 dwt capesize bulker Camellia Dream. The ship is currently deployed on a mid-term contract hauling iron ore for Vale.

The partners said the vessel is expected to achieve fuel and GHG emissions savings of around 6-10% on its regular route between Brazil and Asia, coupled with voyage optimisation technology.

MOL has stated a target of 80 wind propulsion installations by 2035 as part of its environmental plan, with an overall aim of net zero GHG emissions by 2050.

The company recently received a world-first approval in principle (AiP) from ClassNK for an LNG carrier with two of MOL’s telescoping Wind Challenger hard sails.

“MOL and VALE will continue to work towards both the stable transportation of iron ore and the reduction of GHG emissions with the help of Norsepower, to contribute to the realisation of a low-carbon society,” the companies said in a release.