Econowind gets DNV nod for its WAPS

Dutch wind power firm Econowind has received design approval from classification society DNV for its suction wings.

IMAGE: Econowind's suction wings installed on MS Heinz. Econowinds

The design approval is expected to simplify the integration of Econowind’s wind propulsion system on DNV-classed vessels.

The certification will allow the suction wings to be installed on vessels without repeating the full design assessment process, supporting both retrofit and newbuild projects.

German shipping firm HS Schiffahrt’s vessel MS Heinz is among the first vessels to sail with Econowind’s wind propulsion system following DNV's design approval.

Interest in wind-assisted propulsion systems (WAPSs) like suction wings continue to grow as shipowners look to improve efficiency and cut emissions. These systems actively harness wind power to generate forward thrust, reducing fuel dependency.

In June, German shipping company Reederei Bernd Sibum retrofitted its newbuild general cargo vessel MV Baltic Timber with Econowind’s suction wings.

Earlier in April, Econowind revealed its plan to install a 30-metre suction wing system on a vessel operated by Boomsma Shipping later this year.

By Aparupa Mazumder

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