Anthony Veder is first owner to add wind-assisted propulsion to gas carrier

Anthony Veder has retrofitted two Econowind sails, known as VentoFoils sails, onboard ethylene carrier Coral Patula, becoming the first shipowner to install sails onboard a gas carrier.

Later this year, sister ship Coral Pearl will be equipped with two similar sails, the company said.

Anthony Veder Commercial and Sustainability Director Björn van de Weerdhof said "In our sustainable roadmap, we have set the ambitious target of becoming a net-zero emitter by 2035. 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. This allows us to reduce our carbon footprint immediately."

Calling the retrofitting of wind-assisted propulsion to vessels ’a key step in this effort’,Anthony Veder said it is considering further efficiency improvements to the fleet, including propulsion train optimisation, "joint action we can take with our customers" such as slow steaming and making use of shorepower.

"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 company said.

The sail system is designed to work alongside vessel engines, providing a boost in propulsion using wind power. The company said, based on IMO wind condition estimates, it anticipates fuel savings of around 5%, with the potential of more than 10% 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," the company said.