Navigating Sustainable Innovation: The Launch of Na Hiro E Pae
In a remarkable stride towards sustainable maritime transportation, bound4blue has successfully installed a 22-meter-high eSAIL® system onboard the Na Hiro E Pae, a cutting-edge multipurpose vessel owned by Société de Navigation des Australes (SNA Tuha’a Pae Shipping Company). This project not only marks a significant milestone for the vessel and its owner but also serves as a beacon for the wider adoption of wind propulsion technology in the shipping industry.
A Historical Connection
The Na Hiro E Pae intertwines modern shipping with the rich maritime heritage of French Polynesia. These multipurpose cargo vessels, known locally as “goelettes,” historically supplied remote islands under sail. By integrating bound4blue’s innovative eSAIL® technology into Na Hiro E Pae, the vessel becomes the first of its kind globally to utilize a wind propulsion system, bridging the gap between traditional seafaring practices and contemporary logistical needs.
Versatility in Operations
Installed at Astilleros Armon Vigo in Spain, the Na Hiro E Pae operates vital routes between Tahiti and the Austral Islands, transporting both passengers and essential goods. Designed to accommodate up to 200 passengers and carry 1,500 tonnes of cargo, this vessel not only plays an important role in regional transport but also serves as a lifeline for local communities, offering an affordable option for students, families, and workers.
The Innovation Behind eSAIL®
Bound4blue’s eSAIL® represents a groundbreaking advancement in wind propulsion technology. Unlike conventional sails, this mechanically simple suction sail generates up to seven times the propulsive force of a standard rigid sail of comparable size. This feature contributes to a greener maritime operation, enabling engines to run on biofuels or e-fuels while incorporating electric POD propulsion, sustainable waste management, and autonomy in fresh water supply.
Achieving Sustainability Goals
The installation of the eSAIL® is set to improve the vessel’s energy efficiency, reducing energy consumption by approximately 10%. Additionally, it enhances the ship’s Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) and Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) performance metrics. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to modernizing transportation links in the Austral Islands, ultimately supporting both sustainability objectives and regional economic growth.
Collaborative Efforts in Innovation
José Miguel Bermúdez, CEO and co-founder of bound4blue, emphasizes the collaborative nature of this project: “Multipurpose vessels have traditionally been seen as challenging for wind power due to integration demands. Our project highlights how diverse stakeholders can work together, showcasing a viable path forward for integrating sustainable technologies in maritime operations.”
While bound4blue’s eSAIL® is the first of its kind installed on a multipurpose vessel, it positions Na Hiro E Pae as a pioneer within the industry. This innovative approach not only addresses immediate logistical needs but also sets the stage for future advancements in sustainable shipping.
Practical and Functional Design
The SNA Tuha’a Pae Shipping Company’s Technical Director, Boris Piel, noted the importance of sustainability in the vessel’s design: “The eSAIL® is a key component of a comprehensive package of technologies aimed at reducing energy consumption and environmental impact while maintaining reliable transport services.” This synergy of innovation and practicality positions Na Hiro E Pae as a model for future vessels.
The deployment of the eSAIL® is part of a larger strategy by bound4blue, which has installed similar systems on twelve vessels, with six more on order. Each eSAIL® integrates seamlessly into the ship’s operations, easing engine loads and cutting fuel consumption, resulting in substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.
Pioneering a New Era for Shipping
This project signifies not just a technological advancement, but a holistic approach to sustainability. By blending traditional shipping methods with modern innovations, Na Hiro E Pae stands as a testament to the possibilities inherent in combining heritage with the future of maritime transport. It invites shipping companies worldwide to consider wind propulsion as a viable, sustainable alternative that meets the increasing demands for eco-friendly practices.
As the maritime industry faces mounting pressure to reduce its carbon footprint, the initiative taken by bound4blue and SNA Tuha’a Pae Shipping Company illustrates a powerful step towards a greener future, paving the way for further innovations in wind propulsion and sustainable shipping practices.