Anthony Veder has installed two Econowind VentoFoil sails on board of ethylene carrier Coral Patula. With this installation, Anthony Veder claims to be the first worldwide to install sails on a gas carrier.
Later this year, sister ship Coral Pearl will be equipped with two similar sails. By retrofitting existing gas carriers with wind propulsion, the company seeks to reduce its carbon footprint.
‘In our sustainable roadmap, we have set the ambitious target of becoming a net-zero emitter by 2035,’ states Björn van de Weerdhof, Commercial and Sustainability Director at Anthony Veder. ‘Achieving this goal requires action today. While we focus on optimising the design of newbuilds and running those on (bio-)LNG, we are equally committed to enhancing the efficiency of our existing fleet.’
He adds that the VentoFoils ‘allow 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 optimisation and joint action we can take with our customers, such as lower speeds through just in time arrival and making use of shore power.’
Also read: Chemship fits tanker with Econowind’s VentoFoils
Advanced business case calculation
Rens Groot, Chief Operations Officer at Econowind: ‘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.’
‘Meeting the tight timeline was possible due to Anthony Veder’s experienced team in project execution and dry dockings,’ explains Groot. ‘They showed leadership by being the first to implement wind-assisted propulsion on a gas carrier. This vessel is set to achieve substantial fuel savings and CO2 reductions with an attractive payback period.’
Also read: Jumbo equips heavy-lift vessel with Econowind sails
Fuel savings of at least five per cent
By retrofitting two ethylene carriers in its fleet with Econowind VentoFoils, Anthony Veder will be using wind energy to significantly reduce fuel consumption of vessels. The system is designed to work alongside existing engines, providing a boost in propulsion through the power of wind.
Based on IMO wind conditions, fuel savings of around five per cent are anticipated, with the potential of more than ten per cent 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.
Also read: Tanker acquires Green Award label with wind-assist tech
Anthony Veder
Anthony Veder, established in 1937, acquired its first gas tanker in 1969. The group is involved in all segments of gas shipping, from LNG to ethylene and LPG and operates a fleet of 28 gas tankers. The Rotterdam based shipping company employs over 1000 people.
Picture: Coral Patula with Econowind VentoFoils (by Anthony Veder).
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