In a bold move toward greener shipping, Spanish tech innovator bound4blue has successfully installed its cutting-edge eSAILs on a tanker owned by Singapore’s Eastern Pacific Shipping (EPS). This milestone marks a significant step in the maritime industry’s journey toward decarbonization, blending ancient wind power with modern engineering to slash emissions and fuel costs.
A New Era for Wind-Assisted Propulsion
The installation, completed at Türkiye’s Besiktas Shipyard, saw three 22-meter eSAILs mounted on EPS’s 50,000 dwt oil and chemical tanker, Pacific Sentinel. These suction sails, approved by DNV, are part of a fully autonomous wind-assisted propulsion system (WAPS) designed to reduce energy consumption by up to 10%, depending on the vessel’s route.
What makes this installation groundbreaking? It’s bound4blue’s first foray into tanker vessels and EPS’s inaugural step into wind-assisted propulsion. The project aligns with EPS’s ambitious decarbonization strategy, proving that even the most traditional industries can embrace innovative solutions to meet environmental and regulatory demands.
Engineering Simplicity Meets High Performance
David Ferrer, Co-Founder and CTO of bound4blue, highlighted the seamless installation process. “The vessel and sails were prepped in advance, allowing us to lift and bolt them into place without extending the shipyard stay,” he explained.
The eSAILs’ design is a game-changer for tankers, which face unique challenges like ATEX zones (explosive atmospheres) and air draft limitations. Unlike traditional sails, these units don’t require EX-proof mechanisms, simplifying installation and reducing capital expenditure (CAPEX). Their compact size and high performance eliminate the need for tilting mechanisms, making them compatible with existing vessel structures.
“It’s an ‘easy’ way for tankers—and other demanding shipping segments—to tap into the commercial, regulatory, and environmental benefits of wind power,” Ferrer added.
What’s Next for bound4blue and EPS?
This collaboration is just the beginning. bound4blue and EPS are already working on another project: installing three eSAILs on a new MR tanker under construction at New Times Shipbuilding in Jiangsu Province, China. Scheduled for late 2025, this installation will further cement the partnership’s commitment to sustainable shipping.
As the maritime industry faces increasing pressure to reduce emissions, bound4blue’s eSAILs offer a compelling solution. By harnessing the power of the wind, they’re not just cutting costs—they’re charting a course toward a cleaner, greener future.
