Econowind, the Dutch pioneer in wind-assisted propulsion technology, has secured a significant repeat order from leading Nordic tanker operator Terntank for eight additional VentoFoil units for two additional methanol-ready hybrid tankers. This expansion follows the initial May 2023 order for three vessels, bringing the total to five ships equipped with 20 VentoFoils—each tanker fitted with four 16-meter wind wings.
Econowind, the Dutch pioneer in wind-assisted propulsion technology, has secured a significant repeat order from leading Nordic tanker operator Terntank for eight additional VentoFoil units. This expansion brings the total commitment to 20 wind-assisted propulsion systems across five of Terntank’s next-generation hybrid tankers.
The first vessel, Tern Vik, was delivered in April 2025 by China Merchants Jinling Shipyard (Yangzhou). The entire series is equipped with Kongsberg’s advanced energy and propulsion management system. Under the K-Sail concept, wind can take the lead when conditions are favorable. Combined with battery packs and dual-fuel engines capable of running on methanol or diesel, the vessels are designed for zero-emission operations and fully aligned with the IMO 2050 targets.
Terntank operates in the Nordic region and focuses on the transport of sustainable fuels. Its newbuilds are among the most environmentally advanced in the market. Wind-Assisted Ship Propulsion is a key element of the design. The VentoFoils are lightweight, foldable for safe and efficient port operations, and fully ATEX-certified to meet tanker safety requirements.
“At Terntank, we are always looking for ways to reduce fuel consumption. It’s part of our DNA,” said Claes Möller, CEO of Terntank. “The installation of the VentoFoils and their integration with the Kongsberg system went seamlessly. It’s great to see that the actual fuel savings match what was predicted. We’re very pleased with the results.”
This repeat order follows strong performance results from the first installations, demonstrating the contribution of Wind-Assisted Ship Propulsion to fuel savings and emission reductions. Terntank’s confidence in VentoFoil technology is also a signal to the broader market that wind propulsion is no longer a future concept, but a working solution available today.
Econowind’s engineering team has worked closely with Terntank and Kongsberg to ensure seamless integration of the VentoFoils into the vessel’s overall energy system. The collaborative approach allows real-time optimisation of power sources, where wind, batteries, and fuel-based engines work together to minimise emissions and maximise efficiency.
“We are proud to continue our collaboration with Terntank and support their leadership in sustainable shipping,” said Chiel de Leeuw, CCO of Econowind. “This repeat order confirms the performance of our VentoFoils and the shared ambition to decarbonize maritime transport.” With this latest order, Econowind has now sold over 130 VentoFoil units. These are being deployed across a wide range of vessel types, including dry bulk carriers, tankers, ro-ro and container ships, reflecting growing momentum for Wind-Assisted Ship Propulsion across the industry.
