Econowind targets deepsea sector with larger suction sails

Netherlands-based Econowind has launched a new version of its steel suction wing system aimed at larger vessels in ocean trades. The new 5-series Ventofoil is a 30-m version of the company’s smaller 3-series suction wings which are available in 10-m and 16-m sizes. More than 150 of these have been sold so far.

The first 5-series wing is to be installed on a Boomsma Shipping vessel within the next few months. The returning customer has already notched up significant savings in 3-series installations.    

The company’s Johan Boomsma commented: “Wind propulsion has proven its value both economically and environmentally. With high fuel prices adding to the urgency, this is a logical next step for us. Energy efficiency is high on our agenda, which is why our eight newbuild vessels will be all delivered wind-ready. The first, Frisian Future, will enter service in May.

Econowind is establishing a manufacturing site in Asia, closer to the regions where most of the world’s ships are built. The aim is to support owners and yards in the integration of larger Ventofoils into new construction projects.

The company’s strategy targeting the deepsea market comes at a critical time of sky-high bunker prices which many analysts expect to remain permanently elevated in the years ahead.