Anemoi Marine Technologies has secured £1.2 million in funding under the sixth round of the UK’s Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC) to further develop its Rotor Sail technology, with a focus on new aerodynamic features and a folding deployment system for Kamsarmax and Panamax bulk carriers.
The seven-month project will include the design, build and testing of a prototype folding mechanism for Anemoi’s 3.5-metre Rotor Sail, aimed at reducing port-related operational constraints. Folding systems have previously only been applied to larger 5-metre sails, with the new design intended to ease installation and integration on a wider range of vessel types.
The funding will also support aerodynamic design enhancements to improve fuel savings and emissions reductions beyond the performance of Anemoi’s current systems.
“While our Rotor Sails are already efficient and high-performing, ongoing innovation is essential to unlock further efficiency gains, adapt to evolving vessel designs, and meet increasingly ambitious environmental targets,” said Clare Urmston, CEO at Anemoi.
“This investment underscores Anemoi’s potential to support the UK in sustainable shipping as the maritime industry works to cut emissions.”
Additional elements of the project include a rail-based deployment system, allowing sails to move along the deck to avoid obstructions.
