Chemical tanker operator Chemship has returned to Dutch wind propulsion specialist Econowind for the installation of VentoFoils on two additional tankers.
In the second half of 2026, Chemical Contender and Chemical Fighter will be fitted with four 16m ATEX-proof VentoFoils each, reinforcing Chemship’s commitment to reducing fuel use and emissions across its fleet.
Building on the success of Chemical Challenger, the first chemical tanker to be equipped with wind assisted ship propulsion technology, Chemship’s repeat order highlights the growing trust in wind propulsion across the industry. Chemical Challenger was fitted with four 16m VentoFoils in Rotterdam in early 2024, marking a milestone for the chemical tanker segment and demonstrating how wind solutions can reduce fuel use and emissions in real operational conditions.
Niels Grotz, CEO Chemship, said: “We are pushing ahead on sustainability in every area of our business. I am a firm believer in net zero shipping. The results of the VentoFoils on Chemical Challenger speak for themselves. Combined with our fuel optimisation software, VentoFoils have reduced fuel use by up to 15%. The installation of VentoFoils on two more ships shows we are making meaningful progress towards a cleaner shipping future.”
Chiel de Leeuw, Econowind CCO, added: “Chemship has shown leadership by being the first chemical tanker operator to embrace wind assisted ship propulsion and demonstrate what is possible in sustainability. We are proud to support their vision and, of course, to see an existing customer return. This repeat order is a strong endorsement of our technology and inspires others to explore proven solutions that reduce fuel use and lower emissions.”
Chemship has recently been awarded a Platinum rating from EcoVadis in recognition of its strong performance in environmental, social and governance criteria and its ongoing commitment to sustainability. With this rating, Chemship is now ranked among the top 1% of companies assessed by EcoVadis. In addition to wind assisted ship propulsion with VentoFoils, the chemical tanker operator is advancing other efficiency measures across its vessels, including advanced hull coatings, premium lubricants and boss cap fins, to improve efficiency and reduce fuel use.
The installations on Chemical Contender and Chemical Fighter will support Chemship’s broader sustainability roadmap and help the company manage emissions costs under evolving regulatory frameworks, including the FuelEU Maritime Regulation.
Grotz concluded: “At the moment we have the youngest and most economical fleet on our trade lanes. We are continuously looking for new technologies to further optimise fuel use, including as part of our fleet renewal programme.”
Image: ‘Chemical Fighter’ with VentoFoils (source: Chemship/Econowind)
