An integrated control system solution from Swedish company Berg Propulsion has been selected to ensure that the Neoliner wind-powered ro-ro vessel will achieve optimised performance, whether it is powered by wind alone or with the assistance of gensets.
French company Neoline Armateur has contracted Turkish yard RMK Marine to build the first ro-ro vessel to use wind power for commercial operations at its Tuzla yard. Designed by Mauric, the 136m long Neoliner will use emission-free wind power captured by a 3,000m2 area of sail, supported by two 76m SolidSail folding carbon masts.
While wind power is expected to account for almost 80% of Neoliner’s propulsion needs, close manoeuvres and service punctuality require auxiliary power to assist. RMK Marine has contracted Berg Propulsion to deliver and offer technical support for the auxiliary propulsion system, in a solution which includes a ‘feathering’ main propeller. When feathered, propeller blades are set parallel to flow, in a position which will minimise drag when Neoliner is under sail.
Berg’s full scope of supply covers an MPP850F CP propeller with feathering system, the shafting system, gearbox and control system, and three MTT113FP tunnel thrusters.
Mustafa Müslüm, GM Berg Propulsion Eurasia said: “This is a transformative project that challenges the status quo in commercial shipping, and Berg is delighted to offer enabling technology to optimise Neoliner’s sustainable performance across its operational needs. We would also like to extend our thanks to RMK Marine for its continuing trust in the Berg team.”
Whether the Neoliner uses 100% sail, electric power, its 3184kW engine or any combination, the Berg solution is designed to provide optimised hydrodynamic performance and sustainability.
Gürkan Türkeş GM RMK Marine said: “Berg Propulsion is an established provider of innovative propulsion technology which has been supporting RMK Marine’s delivery of highly reliable ships for almost a decade, across a range of vessel types including tankers, tugs and other service craft. We are delighted to be working with them once more on this exceptional project.”
Co-financed by CMA CGM, Ademe Investissement, Neoline Développement, Corsica Ferries, Louis Hardy SAS, the Banque des Territoires and the Pays de la Loire Region, the project anticipates the first Neoliner entering a pilot transatlantic service between Saint-Nazaire, Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon, Baltimore and Halifax in 2025. Companies behind brands such as Renault, Beneteau, Manitou, Michelin, Hennessy, Clarins, Longchamp and Cointreau have already committed to use Neoliner.
Neoline CEO Jean Zanuttini said: “Steps continue towards the realisation of the Neoliner project as a true pioneer of energy transition in shipping. Auxiliary propulsion systems will play a critical role in ensuring that wind power offers a wholly pragmatic solution to shipping’s complex energy issue.”
