Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore (BV) is classing a series of methanol-ready oil and chemical tankers for Union Maritime, which are being equipped with wind propulsion systems, including Norsepower Rotor Sails (NPRS).
The first two vessels, Buran and Ostro, were delivered in February and April 2025, respectively. Union Maritime is also building two additional tankers at Fujian Southeast Shipbuilding and two at Wuhu Shipyard Co., Ltd., all set to be equipped with wind propulsion systems and scheduled for delivery in 2025.
These six vessels are part of a larger new build program for Union Maritime under BV class. Over 25 additional tankers are planned for delivery between 2026 and 2028, including a series at Wuhu Shipyard, with others being constructed at major Chinese shipyards. These vessels will either come with wind propulsion systems installed or be prepared for future integration.
These six vessels represent the beginning of an ambitious plan to modernize our fleet with advanced wind propulsion systems. Bureau Veritas’ expertise in classing these vessels helps ensure that we meet the highest safety and regulatory standards, while also positioning ourselves at the forefront of sustainable shipping
… said Bhuvnesh Dogra, Head of Technical at Union Maritime.
By incorporating wind propulsion systems and methanol-ready configurations, Union Maritime aims to enhance energy efficiency and reduce emissions across its fleet.
BV is supporting the integration of these technologies by evaluating the vessels for compliance with relevant rules and notations, including its standards for wind propulsion and alternative fuels. BV’s comprehensive support includes reviewing the upgraded designs to meet class requirements and delivery schedules.
By classing these vessels, we support ship owners and operators in navigating the transition to more sustainable operations, while maintaining the safety and reliability of their fleets
… commented Matthieu de Tugny, President, Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore.
Meanwhile, Heikki Pöntynen, the CEO of Norsepower, expressed pride in the fact that six of Union Maritime’s new methanol-ready tankers are being equipped with Norsepower Rotor Sails. He highlighted this as a significant step in the commitment to wind propulsion as a key decarbonization solution. Pöntynen pointed out that this expanding fleet showcases how wind-assist technologies can be scaled alongside alternative fuels to achieve both immediate and long-term emissions reductions.
