Baltic Shipping Adds Two Hybrid Coasters with Wind-Assisted Propulsion
Baltic Shipping Company A/S has strengthened its fleet with two next-generation coaster vessels, M/V Baltic Iron and M/V Baltic Timber, featuring wind-assisted propulsion and battery technology to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions.
The two 3,550 DWT vessels are each equipped with two Econowind VentoFoils, which are expected to reduce fuel consumption by up to 12%. Both vessels also feature large battery packs, making them genuine hybrid vessels.
M/V Baltic Timber was the first of the two vessels to enter service and has now been joined by its sister vessel, M/V Baltic Iron. Both vessels are now in commercial operation under Baltic Shipping Company’s management.
The addition of the vessels gives Baltic Shipping Company greater capacity to serve customers seeking to reduce the CO₂ emissions associated with maritime transport. The company can now offer modern, more energy-efficient coaster capacity for the European shortsea shipping market.
“We are very proud to welcome Baltic Iron and Baltic Timber to our fleet,” said Ronnie Hulstrøm, CEO of Baltic Shipping Company A/S. “Having recently visited Baltic Iron, I am deeply impressed by both the vessel and the technology installed on board. The combination of VentoFoils and a large battery pack represents an important step towards more energy-efficient shipping. It demonstrates what can already be achieved with technologies available today.”
The Econowind VentoFoils use wind to generate additional thrust. This reduces the power required from the main engine, helping to lower fuel consumption and associated CO₂ emissions.
Read: Leonhardt & Blumberg Installs Econowind VentoFoils on First Newbuild
Combined with the vessels’ battery technology, the wind-assisted propulsion system gives Baltic Shipping Company a practical solution for improving fuel efficiency and energy performance during daily operations.
“Our customers are increasingly focused on reducing the CO₂ emissions associated with their transport,” Hulstrøm said. “With Baltic Iron and Baltic Timber, we can offer them modern coaster capacity that supports these ambitions. It is a practical step that supports both our customers and our long-term commitment to more sustainable shipping operations.”
With the Damen-built Baltic Iron and Baltic Timber now in service, Baltic Shipping Company has strengthened its fleet with two modern, energy-efficient vessels for the European shortsea market. Their combination of wind-assisted propulsion and battery technology highlights the practical application of available technologies to improve efficiency in commercial shipping.
