BW Epic Kosan Partners with Bound4Blue to Implement Innovative Wind Propulsion System on LPG Tanker

In a significant step towards sustainable marine operations, BW Epic Kosan has partnered with Bound4Blue to implement a cutting-edge eSail suction sail on its LPG tanker, the Helena Kosan, built in 2007. This 24-meter tall autonomous wind propulsion system, set to be installed in 2026, will not only enhance fuel efficiency but also help mitigate emissions and streamline compliance with environmental regulations.

The eSail operates by harnessing wind power, generating lift that is reportedly up to seven times greater than traditional rigid sails of equivalent size. This innovative approach allows for reduced fuel consumption and emissions, aligning perfectly with regulatory frameworks such as the EU ETS and the newly proposed IMO GFI initiative.

Jos Miguel Bermúdez, CEO and co-founder of Bound4Blue, expressed enthusiasm over the collaboration, noting the eSail’s unique advantages in the LPG and tanker market. The system's design includes a maintenance door positioned high above the deck, eliminating hazards associated with explosive environments and facilitating simpler installations. This mechanical simplicity, combined with its compact size and exceptional propulsive efficiency, positions the eSail as an ideal solution for vessel owners like BW Epic Kosan, eager to meet ambitious environmental and commercial objectives.

Jakob Bode, CEO of BW Epic Kosan, emphasized the company’s commitment to reducing its operational environmental footprint through proven technologies. The introduction of the eSail complements a series of innovations already in place, such as ultrasonic transducers and advanced weather routing systems, which collectively aim to cut emissions and enhance efficiency.

The installation process of the eSail will be straightforward, consisting of preparatory work during a scheduled dry docking in 2025, followed by a plug-and-play fitting the subsequent year. Additionally, Bound4Blue's eSail technology is versatile enough to be retrofitted onto a wide range of vessel types, including tankers, bulk carriers, and cruise ships, typically offering a payback period of less than five years.

As Bound4Blue continues to expand its portfolio—having already deployed seven eSail systems and with twelve more on order—the partnership with BW Epic Kosan marks a promising advancement in the transition towards greener maritime operations. The industry eagerly anticipates the operational benefits of this innovative wind propulsion system aboard the Helena Kosan.