Dutch chemical tanker operator orders wind-assisted propulsion for two more vessels

January 27, 2026, by Nadja Skopljak

Following the commissioning of the “world’s first” chemical tanker equipped with sails in 2024, Dutch chemical tanker operator Chemship has placed a new order with compatriot wind propulsion firm Econowind for the installation of wind-assisted ship propulsion technology on two additional vessels.

The tankers Chemical Contender and Chemical Fighter will each be fitted with four 16-meter ATEX-proof VentoFoils in the second half of the year as part of Chemship’s commitment to reducing fuel use and emissions across its fleet.

This comes after Chemical Challenger was fitted with four 16-meter VentoFoils in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, in early 2024, becoming, as the company said, the first chemical tanker in the world to be equipped with wind-assisted ship propulsion technology.

Chemical Challenger first ship to get Green Award’s GHG Label for wind technology use

Vessels

“We are pushing ahead on sustainability in every area of our business,” said Niels Grotz, CEO of Chemship. “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.”

Chemship noted that the installations on the two tankers will support its broader sustainability roadmap and help the company manage emissions costs under evolving regulatory frameworks, including the FuelEU Maritime Regulation.

“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,” Grotz said.