A new industry collaboration is set to explore how Rotor Sails could become a standard feature on Medium-Range (MR) tankers, as four major maritime players launch a joint development project to drive wind-assisted propulsion forward.
Anemoi Marine Technologies, a specialist in wind propulsion systems, has partnered with Hafnia, Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI), and classification society DNV to develop integration designs for Rotor Sails on 50,000 dwt MR tankers. The project, signed in April 2025, targets increased vessel efficiency and emission reduction in line with tightening global environmental standards.
The initiative centers on developing engineering and installation specifications for Rotor Sails—tall, spinning cylinders that use wind to generate forward thrust. With the global fleet facing mounting pressure to decarbonize, the appeal of technologies that improve fuel efficiency while reducing emissions has surged.
As part of the effort, Anemoi and Hafnia are conducting technical studies to assess optimal installation configurations and control system layouts. These studies also analyze potential improvements to both the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) and the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI), crucial benchmarks for regulatory compliance.
GSI is bringing its naval architecture and marine engineering experience to the table, tasked with producing integration blueprints and technical documentation. Meanwhile, DNV will perform an Approval in Principle (AiP) review, ensuring the new design aligns with existing and emerging classification and regulatory frameworks.
“Participating in this joint development project allows us to collaborate with industry partners to assess and embrace the potential of innovative technologies to improve fuel efficiency and reduce vessel emissions,” said Jesper Kristiansen, General Manager Technical at Hafnia.
Mr Shao Guang Chi, Station Manager of Guangzhou Station at DNV Maritime, noted, “WAPS, like Rotor Sails, are spreading throughout the industry… we still have room to improve vessel energy efficiency, and WAPS have emerged as one of the most attractive tools for shipping to make immediate, impactful gains.”
Huang Jun, Deputy Chief Engineer at GSI, highlighted the commercial importance: “Integrating Rotor Sails into MR tankers is a necessary step… we’re committed to delivering vessels that meet both environmental and commercial demands.”
Nick Contopoulos, Chief Production and Partnerships Officer at Anemoi, added, “There is growing interest within the tanker sector for novel technology that can help reduce the carbon footprint… Our partnership will ensure a new generation of MR tankers hits the water in the not-too-distant future.”
