VLOC becomes the largest vessel with wind propulsion technology

Sohar Max is a first generation Valemax, built in 2012 in China’s Rongsheng shipyard. In October 2024, five Rotor Sails, each 35 meters tall and 5 meters wide, were installed at the COSCO Zhoushan shipyard in China. These sails can be folded down to avoid interfering with cargo operations. With this technology, the ship is expected to cut fuel consumption by up to 6% and reduce carbon emissions by about 3,000 tonnes each year. Testing began on a recent voyage to Tubarão and will continue on future trips.

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 decarbonization 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 modernization of the fleet to reduce emissions, in partnership with shipowners.”

Vale is also retrofitting other ships with Rotor Sails, including the NSU Tubarao, with completion expected in 2025. These efforts reflect a growing trend among shipowners to use wind propulsion to meet international emissions standards and move towards greener shipping.

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,

… commented said Nick Contopoulos, Chief Production & Partnerships Officer of Anemoi Marine Technologies. 

To remind, last month, Anemoi Marine Technologies Ltd. partnered with U-Ming Marine Transport Ltd. to install four of its Rotor Sails on a 325,000 DWT Very Large Ore Carrier (VLOC).