What is the Project?
SUCTION SAILS FOR VESSELS – INCREASE PROFITS AND DRIVE DECARBONISATION. This project introduces the innovative eSAIL® technology, a solution that reduces fuel consumption by UP TO 40% with a payback period of less than 5 YEARS, and it operates fully autonomously – no crew needed. It is all about going back to the origins of shipping and harnessing the power of wind to create a sustainable, profitable solution for shipping companies. The project focuses on delivering automated wind-assisted propulsion systems designed to reduce fuel costs and emissions seamlessly across a wide range of vessels including tankers, bulkers, ro-ros, cruises, ferries, gas carriers, and general cargo vessels of any size or age. Launched in 2014, its innovative solutions have now been proven through various installations on actual vessels.
Main Benefit
The main benefit of the eSAIL® technology reflects how it puts shipowners in control by optimizing operations and reducing expenditures. Key figures and facts include:
- Fuel consumption reduced UP TO 40%.
- Payback period lower than 5 YEARS.
- Automatic operation with NO CREW REQUIRED.
- Can generate tradable carbon allowances alongside fuel savings.
- Suitable for a wide range of vessel types.
Our Mission and Vision
The mission is simply outlined – to deliver automated wind-assisted propulsion systems that harness renewable energy as a turnkey solution for all shipowners and operators looking to boost the environmental and economic performance of their fleet. The vision, echoed in every detail, is to POWER THE WORLD WITH WIND. There is a sense of purposeful simplicity here, one that dares to remind everyone that the traditional forces that helped propel humanity for thousands of years still have a role in modern, high-tech maritime transport… and it is exciting.
Prototyping and Validation
The evolution of the eSAIL® began in 2015 with the original concept for bound4blue. Its founders, José Miguel, Cristina, and David, imagined a ship propelled solely by sails to produce renewable energy in an affordable, scalable manner. After numerous iterations with industry partners, they developed the most cost-efficient wind propulsion system possible – the eSAIL®. The performance of this suction sail was rigorously validated using CFD models and multiple wind tunnel testing campaigns. These tests confirmed the aerodynamic efficiency of the system, paving the way for ground tests with a 12-meter high full-scale unit manufactured in collaboration with leading companies from the wind turbine industry.
Global Presence and Installations
The novelty and efficiency of the eSAIL® have already been demonstrated on the water. The first installation took place on the longliner Balueiro II in Panamá, marking a historic milestone as the first fishing vessel in the world to be equipped with this type of wind propulsion technology. Soon after, a 17-meter-high eSAIL® was successfully installed on the general cargo vessel La Naumon in Spain – recognized as the largest suction sail ever deployed on a ship. Additionally, the introduction of the first generation tilting system and the groundbreaking LPG contract secured with a unique non-explosion proof solution further validates the technology’s regulatory and financial advantages for shipowners. Offices in Europe and Asia ensure that the team, partners, and supply network are ready to install eSAIL® wherever it is needed.
Project Impact
- SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy
- SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
- SDG 13 – Climate Action
- SDG 14 – Life Below Water
- SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals
Future Directions
Looking ahead, the eSAIL® technology continues to drive the maritime industry toward a greener, more sustainable future. The concept is already proving that transitioning to low-carbon fuels and innovative propulsion methods doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the technology’s clear benefits in both economic and environmental terms, it sets a new standard for wind propulsion in shipping. The next steps involve scaling up installations, further optimizing aerodynamic efficiency, and continually enhancing ease of integration at any shipyard or port worldwide. This progressive initiative is clearly written in the sails of modern shipping – a commitment to cutting-edge technology, operational flexibility, and a cleaner planet for future generations… simply put, an inspiring move toward harnessing the timeless power of wind in a modern world.
