The Chemical Challenger, a chemical tanker operated by Chemship, has become the first vessel to receive the Green Award GHG Label for CO2 reduction through the use of innovative wind technology. The installation of four 16-metre-high aluminium wind sails aims to reduce the vessel’s CO2 emissions by ten per cent annually.
The 16,000-tonne chemical tanker, managed by Fleet Management Limited in Hong Kong, recently underwent a groundbreaking retrofit, becoming the world’s first chemical tanker equipped with Econowind’s innovative VentoFoil wind-assisted propulsion system.
‘We are thrilled to see the Chemical Challenger leading the way in the chemical tanker segment by embracing wind-assisted propulsion,’ says executive director of Green Award Foundation Jan Fransen. ‘This milestone aligns perfectly with our mission to promote sustainable shipping practices and recognise the frontrunners in the industry.’
Also read: First Green Award CO2 label for a chemical tanker
CO2 Level 1 label
Green Award’s GHG Label, introduced in 2022, recognises ships that have taken significant steps to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions through the use of renewable and advanced energy sources, zero-carbon fuels, or low-carbon fuels. The Chemical Challenger has attained the CO2 Level 1 label, demonstrating its commitment to going beyond operational readiness in the adoption of sustainable technologies.
‘As a company committed to sustainable shipping, we are proud to have the Chemical Challenger as the first ship to receive the Green Award GHG Label for innovative wind technology use. This recognition validates our efforts to reduce our environmental impact and sets a new standard for the industry,’ says CEO of Chemship, Niels Grotz.
Also read: First dual-fuel VLCC certified by Green Award
VentoFoils
The VentoFoil system, developed by Dutch company Econowind, uses smart vacuum technology to quintuple the force of the wind, creating an impressive wind surface area equivalent to a sail measuring 30 by 30 metres. By harnessing the power of the wind, the Chemical Challenger is expected to reduce its annual CO2 emissions by approximately 850 tonnes, equivalent to the yearly emissions of over 500 passenger cars.
Green Award Foundation remains dedicated to supporting the shipping industry’s transition towards a greener future by providing a comprehensive labelling system that encourages and rewards sustainable practices.
Picture: Chemical Challenger with Green Award’s GHG Label for innovative wind technology use.
