Anthony Veder installs ‘first’ wind-assisted propulsion systems on gas carrier

Dutch gas shipping company Anthony Veder has launched two VentoFoils sails on ethylene carrier Coral Patula, delivered by compatriot Econowind.

With this installation, Anthony Veder is said to be the “first worldwide” to install sails onboard a gas carrier. Later in 2024, Coral Patula’s sister ship Coral Pearl will be equipped with two similar sails.

By retrofitting two ethylene carriers in its fleet with Econowind VentoFoils, Anthony Veder said it will be using wind energy to “significantly” reduce the fuel consumption of vessels. According to the company, the system is designed to work alongside existing engines, providing a boost in propulsion through the power of wind.

“Based on IMO wind conditions, we anticipate fuel savings of around 5%, with the potential of more than 10% in optimal wind conditions. By using less fuel, the company not only cuts down on the energy bill, but more important on greenhouse gas emissions,” Anthony Veder noted.

Björn van de Weerdhof, Commercial and Sustainability Director at Anthony Veder, commented: “In our sustainable roadmap, we have set the ambitious target of becoming a net-zero emitter by 2035. Achieving this goal requires action today. While we focus on optimizing the design of newbuilds and running those on (bio-) LNG, we are equally committed to enhancing the efficiency of our existing fleet. This allows us to reduce our carbon footprint immediately.”

“Wind-assisted propulsion is a key step in this effort, and our collaboration with Econowind reflects the strength of our partnerships. Additionally, we are exploring other solutions such as propulsion train optimization and joint action we can take with our customers such as lower speeds through Just in Time arrival and making use of horsepower.”

Rens Groot, Chief Operations Officer at Econowind, stated: “Anthony Veder conducted a thorough analysis before selecting the VentoFoils, including an advanced business case calculation balancing benefits and realistic costs. This allowed us to see key advantages, such as speed increases for gas carriers, where VentoFoils help offset engine power limitations… This vessel is set to achieve substantial fuel savings and CO2 reductions with an attractive payback period.”

To note, in September 2024, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) was urged to agree on a strong revision of the Carbon Index Indicator (CII), a global fuel standard that allows for the uptake of wind propulsion, and an ambitious levy to ensure the shipping industry reaches decarbonization targets.

Anaïs Rios, Shipping Policy Officer at Seas At Risk, said: “Wind technology is available now and can be fitted on most vessels. Hybrid ships that use both fuels and wind, through appropriate scheduling, route choices and weather forecasting, can take advantage of the strong winds that are prevalent on the high seas around the globe.”

“We urge the IMO to adopt a high levy, allowing vulnerable countries to take advantage of the revenues to decarbonise their shipping industry and reduce the effects of climate change. Wise choices need to be made to reach the IMO’s goals and deliver its decarbonisation strategy, and we must focus on technologies that are clean, readily available, and that make practical sense.”