Econowind, a Dutch wind-assisted ship propulsion system developer, is targeting the deep-sea market with the launch of a 30-meter steel suction wing system for oceangoing vessels.
The 5-series VentoFoil was unveiled last week in Heeg, with the first unit to have its commercial debut this summer with the installation on a Boomsma Shipping vessel.
“As a returning customer, we are pleased to use VentoFoils again on our vessels, now in the form of the 5-series,” said Johan Boomsma from Boomsma Shipping. “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.”
This 30-meter model is based on the same principles as the 3-series wing and targets deep-sea owners and operators looking to cut fuel consumption and improve regulatory compliance, Econowind said.
Furthermore, the Dutch company revealed it was also organizing production in the Far East to bring manufacturing closer to major shipbuilding hubs and make it easier for owners and yards to integrate the larger VentoFoil units into newbuild projects.
“The 3-series has shown that our technology works in daily operations,” said Chiel de Leeuw , Chief Commercial Officer of Econowind. “With the 5-series, we are bringing that proven concept into the deepsea market.”