Odfjell ups energy efficiency by 50%

A new chemical tanker has entered service with a design focused on lower emissions and improved efficiency. Odfjell is pairing proven engineering with wind-assisted propulsion as it improves fleet performance. 

Odfjell has taken delivery of Bow Erikson, a 40,000 dwt chemical tanker built to push energy efficiency beyond current fleet standards. The vessel joins the company’s supersegregator segment, where Odfjell holds more than 40 per cent of the global market.

The ship stands out for combining two technologies that directly affect fuel use and emissions. A gate rudder system, described as an industry first for chemical tankers, works alongside four wind-assisted suction sails to improve propulsion efficiency. Together, they allow the vessel to reduce fuel consumption while maintaining operational performance.

Øistein Jensen, Chief Sustainability Officer at Odfjell SE, noted, “Another big step in our decarbonisation journey! Meet Bow Erikson, our first 40k dwt chemical tanker equipped with gate rudder and sails. She will use both wind and advanced technology to reduce fuel consumption and emissions Compared to the average tanker in this class, energy efficiency is improved by 50%!”

Sea trials indicated around 20% lower fuel consumption than sister vessels, even before accounting for the additional contribution from sails. Overall, energy efficiency is estimated to be 50 per cent better than the average tanker in the same class. The vessel has also achieved a Phase 5 Energy Efficiency Design Index equivalent rating, placing it at the top end of regulatory benchmarks.

The project shows a long standing relationship between Odfjell and Japan’s Kitanihon shipyard, which has now delivered 14 vessels to the owner over two decades. Bow Erikson entered service immediately after delivery, with Ulsan as its first port of call.

Named after the Norse explorer Leiv Erikson, the vessel is the first in a new series that also recognises Filipino and Japanese maritime ties. For Odfjell, the focus remains on applying practical solutions that deliver measurable gains in emissions and efficiency across its fleet.

Source: Vesselperformance.info.
Image: Odfjell.

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