Eastern Pacific Shipping(EPS) has signed a contract for its first ever wind-assisted propulsion system, partnering with bound4blue to install three 22-metre eSAILs® onboard the Pacific Sentinel. The turnkey ‘suction sail’ technology, which drags air across an aerodynamic surface to generate exceptional propulsive efficiency, will be fitted later this year, helping the 183-metre, 50,000DWT oil and chemical tanker reduce overall energy consumption by approximately 10%, depending on vessel routing.
bound4blue is gaining significant industry traction for its fully autonomous eSAIL® technology, with this latest agreement following similar contracts recently. Suitable for both newbuilds and retrofit projects, the system delivers energy efficiency and cost savings for a broad range of vessels, regardless of their size and age.
Working in tandem with existing propulsion systems on the Pacific Sentinel, the three eSAILs® will use an autonomous control system to optimize power and reduce engine load and fuel consumption, with no need for crew input and low maintenance requirements. It is a simple, mechanically robust solution, making it an ideal fit for the needs of the Singapore-headquartered shipping giant, with an extensive fleet comprising over 250 vessels and a combined DWT of 25 million.
Pacific Sentinel will achieve a ‘wind assisted’ notation from class society ABS once the eSAILs® are installed. The technology will help ships to comply with existing and upcoming regulations like improving EEDI and EEXI, enhancing its CII rating, and contributing to saved allowances within the EU Emissions Trading Scheme.