FINNISH wind propulsion developer Norsepower has unveiled True Performance, its new performance measurement and monitoring system.
The system measures performance of both the sails and the ship’s propeller, providing shipowners, charterers, and regulators with precise data on the real-world impact of Norsepower’s Rotor Sails.
Measuring the effectiveness of wind propulsion has traditionally been challenging due to highly variable operating conditions.
By directly measuring the real-life thrust produced by Norsepower Rotor Sails in real-time, the company says True Performance delivers clear, science-backed insights into fuel savings and emission reductions.
By continuously tracking the sail performance of any kind of wind propulsion system, True Performance is aimed at long-term reliability and supports ongoing optimisation of sail technology and control systems.
The company said it also helps shipowners and charterers resolve cost-benefit sharing by accurately attributing fuel savings to wind propulsion.
With increasing regulatory pressure, Norsepower intends for the system to strengthen industry confidence in wind propulsion, providing ship operators with the data needed to deal with regulations set by the IMO and EU, such as CII, FuelEU Maritime, and the upcoming GFS (Global Fuel Standard).
Heikki Pöntynen, CEO of Norsepower, said, “Norsepower True Performance™ is a game-changer. By directly measuring thrust force from both the sails and the ship’s propeller, we will deliver the most accurate measurement of wind propulsion performance available today”.
“This strengthens not only the business case for wind propulsion but also its role in regulatory frameworks.”
Ville Paakkari, head of research and development at Norsepower, added, “This system represents the culmination of years of rigorous research, engineering precision, and the integration of advanced AI-powered analytics”.
“Our R&D team has developed a framework capable of isolating and quantifying the true thrust contribution of any type of sails in real-world conditions.
“By continuously gathering high-frequency sensor data, Norsepower True Performance™ provides shipowners and regulators with a level of granularity and accuracy that simply wasn’t possible before.”
Norsepower said True Performance aligns with upcoming industry milestones, including discussions at MEPC 83, where regulators will further develop emissions reduction measures.
By offering reliable, high-frequency thrust force measurements, the company believes the system equips ships and regulators with the data needed to recognise and integrate wind propulsion into future maritime policies.