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Green Shipping Made Easy With VentoFoil Technology | |
| Sumita Pawar |
Shipping companies, shippers, and policymakers are prioritising sustainability in the shipping industry. The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) is developing international regulations and standards to achieve a 40% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2030.
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eConowind is contributing to this goal with its VentoFoil concept, a flexible, vertical "wing" that converts wind into extra thrust. By using VentoFoils, ships can save up to 15% on their fuel consumption annually.
The first VentoFoil users are impressed, and they are now sharing their experiences as official ambassadors. With the start of the CO2 tax in 2024, it is crucial for ship owners to accelerate the green transformation, especially as the industry is under scrutiny. Although international shipping accounts for only 3% of global CO2 emissions, it is still the most efficient mode of transport per tonne-kilometre.
Several shipping companies have closely followed the innovators and ordered their own VentoFoils. With the increased production capacity, eConowind can now serve the market even better.
The low-maintenance system can be installed within two days, and wind-assisted propulsion not only reduces CO2 emissions but also brings significant fuel and cost savings. With eConowind's VentoFoils, shipowners can profitably reduce CO2 emissions.
Users see a positive contribution immediately after installation. Four Dutch shipowners have gained experience with the first two generations of VentiFoils and will now pioneer the third generation of VentoFoils and become active ambassadors of eConowind. This generation of wings delivers demonstrable savings, enabling ships to meet tightened environmental requirements.
Johan Boomsma of Boomsma Shipping says, "For us, energy efficiency is key, which is why we are always open to new developments. I think the three key factors—unit cost, fuel prices, and European ETS legislation—are converging in such a way that wind-assisted propulsion will soon become one of the standard solutions. eConowind will succeed in making a significant contribution to reducing shipping emissions." By becoming eConowind ambassadors, these shipowners aim to show customers and competitors that shipowners can reduce their fuel consumption with a proven, affordable system. The VentoFoils are easy to use, and with the push of a button, crews can deploy and lower the sails again.
Jan van Dam of Van Dam Shipping says, "As the first user of the VentiFoil system, we see how the system is developing in a positive way. We will have to go green as an industry, and wind-assisted propulsion is a 'quick win.' With our 4,000-tonne vessel, we consume about 1,250 metric tonnes of fuel a year. With current fuel prices, you will earn back the VentoFoils within four years. When the CO2 tax comes into force, it will go faster. Together with Tata Steel, we are looking at developing a hydrogen-powered ship. With that kind of expensive fuel, we will earn back the VentoFoils even faster."
By deploying modern leasing structures, VentoFoils are readily available to ship owners. With this financing option, the wind-assisted propulsion units delivered positive cash flow from day one. With all the pooled knowledge and experience, eConowind aims to make the wings more widely available and continue developing as a scale-up. Advanced discussions are ongoing with several investors, and the company is optimistic about its future.