Harnessing the power of wind
Rotor Sails on Berge Bulk Vessels.
Flettner Rotors operate on the principle of the Magnus Effect – the same principle that enables professional sports players to make a ball spin and move with a curved trajectory.
The rotors are large columns — they spin at a high rotational speed and are mounted vertically on the deck. When the wind blows and interacts with these spinning columns, it generates a pressure differential that can be oriented to propel the ship forwards. This effect results in a reduction in mechanical power demand on the main engine, along with a corresponding reduction in main engine fuel consumption.
Continuous Innovation
We’re committed to continuous innovation and exploring cleaner, greener energy sources. Wind propulsion is an option we have explored previously in other formats, and we firmly believe it can help achieve our decarbonisation commitments.
In our move towards a zero emissions fleet, we are partnering with Anemoi Marine Technologies Ltd — global leaders in wind-assisted propulsion for commercial vessels — to pilot Flettner Rotors on Berge Bulk ships.
Our partnership with Anemoi began with in-depth engineering simulations in order to find the best possible technical and commercial solution.
We have successfully installed flettner rotors on two vessels in our fleet, the Berge Neblina and the Berge Meru.
These latest installations feature four 35-metre-high propulsion units, each uniquely engineered with a custom folding deployment system. This allows the rotors to lay flat during port stay, ensuring no impact on air draught or cargo handling efficiency. The Rotor sails are capable of delivering more than 350 tonnes in annual fuel savings.
