Chemship, a Dutch chemical carrier owner, has made history by retrofitting Econowind’s VentoFoils on its vessel, Chemical Challenger, marking the first installation of such technology on a chemical carrier. This innovative move aims to reduce CO2 emissions and enhance sustainability in maritime operations, says an article published on riviera website.
Summary
- Chemship retrofitted Econowind’s VentoFoils on its vessel, Chemical Challenger, becoming the first chemical carrier to implement such wind-assisted propulsion technology.
- The VentoFoils create a substantial wind surface equivalent to a large sail, aiming to reduce CO2 emissions and enhance sustainability in maritime operations.
- Chemship expects to achieve a 10% CO2 reduction, equivalent to 850 tonnes annually, by utilizing wind power as a free and sustainable energy source.
- The wind sails were chosen for their ease of installation, lightweight design, operational safety, and minimal interference with normal ship operations.
Innovative Retrofit Installation
The VentoFoils, utilizing smart vacuum technology, have been installed on the Chemical Challenger, creating a direct wind surface of 180 m2 and a gross wind surface of 900 m2. This substantial wind surface is equivalent to a large imaginary sail, providing significant wind-assisted propulsion benefits.
Environmental Impact And CO2 Reduction
Chemship expects to achieve an average CO2 reduction of 10% with the implementation of these turbo sails. Chief Executive Niels Grotz emphasizes the importance of utilizing sustainable and free energy sources like wind to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, highlighting the potential annual CO2 reduction of 850 tonnes on the Chemical Challenger.
Operational Benefits And Safety
Operations Director Michiel Marelis explains that the wind sails were chosen for their ease of installation, lightweight design, and minimal interference with normal operations. The sails can be controlled easily and fold automatically in high winds, ensuring safety while maximizing efficiency.
Alignment With Sustainability Goals
Chemical Challenger’s deployment of wind-assisted propulsion aligns with broader sustainability initiatives within Chemship. The company focuses on various aspects such as improved lubricating oils and coatings for enhanced fuel efficiency, leading to overall fuel savings of over 15% and a significant reduction in CO2 emissions.
Industry Recognition And Future Prospects
The successful integration of wind-assisted propulsion on the Chemical Challenger has garnered positive attention from industry stakeholders. Port agencies and partners, such as Saltend Chemicals Park and Casper Ltd, recognize the importance of investing in innovative technologies to reduce carbon footprints and drive sustainability in maritime transportation.
Inspiring A Greener Future
Chemship’s pioneering initiative with wind-assisted propulsion serves as a model for the shipping industry’s transition towards greener and more sustainable practices. The company hopes to inspire others to adopt similar technologies and contribute to a more environmentally friendly maritime sector.
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Source: riviera
