GEFO steers toward a wind-powered futureIn an ambitious step toward green transformation, GEFO Shipping Group has finalized a fleet-wide agreement with Finnish wind propulsion leader Norsepower. The partnership, announced on May 28, 2025, in Helsinki, will outfit six upcoming chemical tankers with Norsepower’s award-winning Rotor Sails™. The decision underlines GEFO’s broader sustainability drive and signals a growing market shift from experimental installations to full-scale fleet integration of wind-assisted propulsion. Each vessel will be built with wind energy in mind, combining traditional engineering with modern environmental innovation.

Cross-Continental Collaboration in ShipbuildingThis marks a three-way collaboration across Europe and Asia. German-based GEFO, China’s Nantong Xiangyu Shipbuilding, and Finland’s Norsepower will collectively deliver six advanced tankers. Naval architecture for the vessels is being handled by SDC Ship Design & Consult GmbH, one of Germany’s most reputed marine design firms. The joint effort spans design, construction, and propulsion, symbolizing a global commitment to sustainable maritime logistics. The partnership also opens a new chapter for Norsepower’s expansion in Asia, aligning with its goal to become a global green propulsion leader.

Vessel Specifications & Rotor ConfigurationsThe six-ship order includes two vessel classes. Four 3,850 deadweight metric ton chemical tankers will each be fitted with a single 20-meter-tall, 4-meter-diameter Norsepower Rotor Sail™, while the two larger 7,900 deadweight metric ton tankers will each receive a larger 28mx4m rotor. These rotor sails function using the Magnus effect, where wind passing around the spinning rotor creates additional lift and forward thrust, significantly reducing fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions. This technology can lead to fuel savings of 5% to 20%, depending on wind conditions and vessel operation patterns.

EX-compliant Sails for Hazardous CargoAll six rotors to be installed will be built with Norsepower’s latest EX-compliant design. This ensures the technology is certified and safe for use aboard tankers that transport flammable chemicals and fuels. The sails comply with international safety standards, including classification society approvals, and are engineered to integrate seamlessly with hazardous cargo operations. This makes them ideal for chemical tankers, where additional safety certifications are mandatory. GEFO’s decision to adopt this version highlights its commitment to operational safety alongside sustainability.

Streamlined Manufacturing & Installation PipelineThe Rotor Sails™ will be manufactured at Norsepower’s exclusive facility in China, one of the few factories globally dedicated to producing full-scale maritime wind propulsion units. The sails will be delivered to the shipyard fully assembled, tested, and ready for direct installation — eliminating delays and simplifying logistics. This turnkey delivery approach is part of Norsepower’s scalable model that supports rapid deployment across international shipyards. Each rotor is pre-fitted with electrical and mechanical interfaces for plug-and-play integration, reducing vessel downtime and cost.

Digital Dimension Brings Smart SailingAlongside physical technology, GEFO will gain access to Norsepower’s proprietary AI-based platform, the Norsepower Digital Dimension. This includes the Sentient Control™ system, which automatically adjusts rotor speed and operation based on real-time wind, sea, and navigation data. Combined with the Norsepower Cloud, the system enables real-time analytics, predictive maintenance alerts, and accurate reporting of emissions savings. This digital infrastructure ensures that the rotor sails not only save fuel but operate at peak efficiency throughout the voyage.

Policy Support & Delivery RoadmapThe fleet development is supported by the German Government’s Namkue Fund (Nachhaltige Modernisierung von Küstenschiffen), a special program promoting sustainable coastal and short-sea shipping. This backing ensures financial feasibility for pioneering technologies and positions Germany as a leader in clean maritime transport. Delivery of the first vessels is scheduled for early 2026, with full completion expected by 2028. Rotor Sails™ will be installed shortly after hull construction at the shipyard, ensuring minimal delay between delivery and deployment.

Key Takeaways:

• GEFO is equipping six new chemical tankers with EX-compliant Norsepower Rotor Sails™, built by Nantong Xiangyu Shipbuilding with designs by SDC Ship Design & Consult GmbH.

• The rotors will be manufactured in China and installed post-hull delivery; digital controls using AI will optimise efficiency in real time.

• The project is supported by Germany’s Namkue Fund and marks Norsepower’s first multi-vessel deal in Asia, expanding its global footprint.