Chemical tanker operator Chemship has returned to Dutch wind propulsion specialist Econowind for the installation of VentoFoils on two additional vessels, reinforcing its fleetwide push to cut fuel consumption and emissions.
In the second half of 2026, Chemical Contender and Chemical Fighter will each be fitted with four 16-metre ATEX-proof VentoFoils, following the successful deployment of the technology on Chemical Challenger—the world’s first chemical tanker equipped with wind-assisted ship propulsion.
Chemical Challenger was retrofitted with four 16-metre VentoFoils in Rotterdam in early 2024, marking a milestone for the chemical tanker segment. According to Chemship, the system has delivered tangible operational benefits, reducing fuel consumption by up to 15% when combined with the company’s fuel optimisation software.
“We are pushing ahead on sustainability in every area of our business,” said 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. Installing the technology on two more ships shows we are making meaningful progress towards a cleaner shipping future.”
Econowind said the repeat order reflects growing confidence in wind-assisted propulsion across the maritime sector.
“Chemship has shown leadership by being the first chemical tanker operator to embrace wind-assisted ship propulsion and demonstrate what is possible in sustainability,” said 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 emissions.”
EcoVadis Platinum recognition
Chemship recently received a Platinum rating from EcoVadis, placing the company among the top 1% of all organisations assessed globally for environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance.
Beyond wind propulsion, Chemship is implementing a range of efficiency measures across its fleet, including advanced hull coatings, premium lubricants and boss cap fins, as part of its broader decarbonisation strategy.
The upcoming VentoFoil installations on Chemical Contender and Chemical Fighter will also help Chemship manage emissions-related costs under evolving regulations such as the FuelEU Maritime Regulation.
“At the moment we have the youngest and most economical fleet on our trade lanes,” Grotz added. “We are continuously looking for new technologies to further optimise fuel use, including as part of our fleet renewal programme.”
