Baltic Shipping Company A/S has added M/V Baltic Iron and M/V Baltic Timber to its fleet, introducing two next-generation coasters equipped with wind-assisted propulsion and battery technology.
The 3,550 DWT sister vessels each feature two Econowind VentoFoils, which use wind to generate additional thrust and are expected to reduce fuel consumption by up to 12%. Large battery packs further improve energy efficiency, making both vessels hybrid-powered.
M/V Baltic Timber was the first to enter service, followed by M/V Baltic Iron. Both Damen-built vessels are now in commercial operation under Baltic Shipping Company’s management and will serve the European shortsea 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. “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.”
By reducing the power required from the main engine, the VentoFoils help lower fuel consumption and associated CO₂ emissions. Combined with battery technology, the vessels provide Baltic Shipping Company with a practical solution for improving efficiency during daily operations.
“Our customers are increasingly focused on reducing the CO₂ emissions associated with their transport,” Hulstrøm added. “With Baltic Iron and Baltic Timber, we can offer them modern coaster capacity that supports these ambitions.”
