Baltic Shipping Company Adds Two Wind-Assisted Hybrid Coasters to Fleet
Baltic Shipping Company has expanded its fleet with the addition of two new energy-efficient coaster vessels, M/V Baltic Iron and M/V Baltic Timber. The 3,550 DWT vessels combine wind-assisted propulsion and battery technology, supporting the company's ambitions to reduce emissions and offer greener transport solutions to customers in the European shortsea market.
Built by Damen, both vessels are equipped with two Econowind VentoFoils, which use wind power to generate additional thrust and are expected to reduce fuel consumption by up to 12%. The vessels also feature large battery packs, making them genuine hybrid vessels and further improving operational efficiency.
M/V Baltic Timber entered service first and has now been joined by sister vessel M/V Baltic Iron. Both ships are currently operating under Baltic Shipping Company’s management.
According to CEO Ronnie Hulstrøm, the vessels demonstrate how commercially available technologies can already contribute to more sustainable shipping.
“We are very proud to welcome Baltic Iron and Baltic Timber to our fleet. 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,” he said.
The fleet expansion comes as demand grows for lower-carbon transport solutions. By introducing the two hybrid vessels, Baltic Shipping Company aims to help customers reduce the CO₂ footprint associated with cargo transportation while providing modern and efficient coaster capacity.
The VentoFoils reduce reliance on the main engine by harnessing wind energy, lowering fuel consumption and associated emissions. Together with battery technology, the system offers a practical approach to improving sustainability in daily operations.
“With Baltic Iron and Baltic Timber, we can offer modern coaster capacity that supports our customers’ climate ambitions. It is a practical step that supports both our customers and our long-term commitment to more sustainable shipping operations,” Hulstrøm added.
With approximately 95 dry cargo vessels under commercial management and charter, Baltic Shipping Company continues to strengthen its position in the European shortsea market through investments in energy-efficient maritime solutions.
Source: Baltic Shipping
