Rotterdam | January 26, 2026 – Chemical tanker operator Chemship has signaled its long-term commitment to wind-assisted ship propulsion (WASP) by placing a repeat order with Dutch specialist Econowind. The agreement will see the installation of VentoFoils on two additional vessels, the Chemical Contender and Chemical Fighter, in the second half of 2026.
This expansion follows the successful pilot of the technology on the Chemical Challenger, which in early 2024 became the first chemical tanker in the world to be equipped with WASP technology.
Proven Performance: 15% Fuel Reduction
The decision to outfitt more of the fleet was driven by concrete operational data. On the Chemical Challenger, the integration of four 16-meter VentoFoils, paired with advanced fuel optimization software, has resulted in fuel savings of up to 15%.
“We are pushing ahead on sustainability in every area of our business,” stated Niels Grotz, CEO of Chemship. “I am a firm believer in net zero shipping. The results of the VentoFoils on Chemical Challenger speak for themselves. The installation of VentoFoils on two more ships shows we are making meaningful progress towards a cleaner shipping future.”
Safety-First Engineering: ATEX-Proof Wings
For the Chemical Contender and Chemical Fighter, Econowind will supply four 16-meter ATEX-proof VentoFoils per vessel. The ATEX certification is a critical requirement for chemical tankers, ensuring that the suction-wing units are safe for operation in environments where flammable gases may be present.
The VentoFoil technology utilizes a sophisticated “boundary layer suction” system. By using internal fans to create a vacuum, the foils quintuple the effective wind force, providing significant thrust without the need for traditional, massive sail areas.
A Strategic Endorsement for Econowind
“Chemship has shown leadership by being the first chemical tanker operator to embrace wind assisted ship propulsion and demonstrate what is possible in sustainability,” noted Chiel de Leeuw, Chief Commercial Officer at Econowind. “This repeat order is a strong endorsement of our technology and inspires others to explore proven solutions that reduce fuel use and lower emissions.”
Strategic ESG Leadership
Chemship B.V.’s sustainability efforts were recently recognized with a Platinum rating from EcoVadis, placing the operator in the top 1% of companies globally for environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance.
Beyond wind propulsion, Chemship is implementing a suite of efficiency measures, including:
- Advanced Hull Coatings: Reducing friction and biofouling.
- Boss Cap Fins: Improving propeller efficiency and reducing energy loss.
- Premium Lubricants: Lowering internal engine friction.
These initiatives are increasingly vital as the industry navigates evolving regulations like the FuelEU Maritime Regulation, which imposes strict limits on the greenhouse gas intensity of energy used on board.
For Econowind, the repeat order marks a transition from “experimental” to “essential.” The VentoFoil system uses suction-based airflow control to generate significant thrust relative to its footprint, a vital feature for tankers where deck space and safety are at a premium.
Econowind’s Ventofoil
Econowind‘s Ventofoil engineering philosophy centers on ease of integration, making them a preferred partner for both vessel designers and shipowners.
Key Technical Specifications (USPs)
- Crew-Centric Integration: Systems are designed for seamless automated operation with minimal crew intervention.
- Tilting Mechanism: Designed to minimize operational interference during cargo handling.
- Lightweight Construction: The system is engineered to require no additional deck reinforcement.
- Safety & Visibility: The compact height eliminates the need for bridge cameras, ensuring clear lines of sight.
- Boundary Layer Suction: Advanced internal fan systems maximize thrust while maintaining a small deck footprint.
Source: Econowind