Econowind - Experts & Thought Leaders

Dutch company Econowind, based in Zeewolde, has secured €1 million in development capital from Invest International to advance and test its VentoFoil XL, a 24-30 metre high steel wind sail inspired by aviation technology. Similar to aeroplane wings, these innovative sails are designed for large vessels, harnessing wind power to reduce fuel consumption and cut CO2 emissions by up to 15%.  Introduction of the XL model The first of two XL prototypes is expected to be fully developed and tested within the next two years Econowind has been producing smaller VentoFoils for coastal shipping for several years. With the introduction of the XL model, the company aims to expand into the deep-sea shipping market, strengthening its position as a pioneer in sustainable maritime technology.  The first of two XL prototypes is expected to be fully developed and tested within the next two years. In addition to development capital, Invest International has also provided export financing to support Econowind’s growth. Proven success & market potential Econowind has already manufactured 10- and 16-metre VentoFoils for coastal vessels. Now, the larger 24-30 metre XL sails will enter the market, targeting deep-sea shipping, which includes 50,000 vessels worldwide. These ships spend extended periods at sea, consuming significant amounts of fuel. The larger sails will deliver greater fuel savings and further reduce environmental impact. Designed and manufactured in Zeewolde, the VentoFoil XL will soon be deployed on ships around the world, contributing to greener maritime transport. Prototype development & testing Econowind is already engaged in discussions with potential customers The newly secured funding will support the design, development, and construction of two VentoFoil XL prototypes. These will undergo extensive testing on both land and sea to evaluate performance and safety, forming the basis for regulatory approval. While the project is set for completion in summer 2027, Econowind is already engaged in discussions with potential customers. Strategic Investment & Industry Collaboration Michiel Slootweg, Director of Private Sector at Invest International, emphasised the importance of investing in sustainable maritime technology: “Econowind is a perfect fit for our portfolio as an innovative Dutch scale-up driving the sustainability of shipping. With key partners like Damen Shipyards and customers among the world’s top ten shipping companies, Econowind is well-positioned for a global rollout." "These international opportunities are a key reason for our investment. Development capital is often unavailable through traditional financing, but we can provide the necessary support to help bring this product to market.” CO2 emissions in deep-sea shipping Econowind CEO & Founder, Frank Nieuwenhuis, highlighted the company's expansion into the deep-sea sector: “With this investment, we can accelerate our focus on the deep-sea market. Having already delivered over 100 sails for smaller seagoing vessels, it is now time for the VentoFoil XL." "This technology will improve fuel efficiency and cut CO2 emissions in deep-sea shipping. The market demand is high, and the potential is enormous. Wind propulsion is bringing shipping back to its roots.” Development of wind-powered solutions For this financial transaction, Invest International collaborated with Regional Development Companies (ROMs), specifically the Development Company for Northern Netherlands (NOM) and Horizon Flevoland, which provided an additional €2 million in equity to Econowind. This financing aligns with Invest International's mission to decarbonise the maritime sector. Currently, over 90% of global trade relies on shipping, which accounts for 2.5% of worldwide CO2 emissions. The development of wind-powered solutions like the VentoFoil XL represents a crucial step toward a more sustainable shipping industry.

Econowind has surpassed 100 VentoFoil units sold, marking a major milestone in the shipping industry’s shift towards Wind-Assisted Ship Propulsion. The increasing adoption of the VentoFoil system reflects shipowners’ drive to cut fuel consumption, reduce CO₂ emissions, and comply with tightening global regulations. Since the first two units were installed on MV Ankie in 2018, Econowind has steadily expanded its reach. Today, 32 VentoFoil units are in operation, 33 are currently in production or ready for installation, and another 37 are set for delivery in 2025. The VentoFoil technology has been successfully deployed on bulk carriers, tankers, RoRo, and container vessels. Embracing wind power "Surpassing 100 VentoFoil units sold is a clear sign that Wind-Assisted Ship Propulsion is gaining real momentum," said Chiel de Leeuw, CCO of Econowind. "With rising fuel costs and increasingly strict environmental regulations, shipowners are embracing wind power as a proven solution. As we scale up production, we’re eager to help even more vessels transition to greener shipping. The low weight and tiltable VentoFoils are ideal for ship owners who value flexibility." To meet growing demand, Econowind is scaling up production at its facility in Zeewolde To meet growing demand, Econowind is scaling up production at its facility in Zeewolde. The expanded space and optimized processes allow for higher output and shorter lead times, ensuring more shipowners can benefit from VentoFoil technology. This strategic move positions Econowind to ramp up manufacturing as the industry accelerates its shift toward low-carbon shipping solutions. Reducing carbon emissions The VentoFoil range offers flexible solutions with 10m, 16m, 24m, and 30m versions, catering to various vessel sizes and operational needs. Next to the fixed mounts Econowind offers containerized and Flatrack VentoFoil units. These can be easily transferred between vessels, making it a practical, scalable solution for shipowners looking to enhance efficiency and reduce carbon emissions while maintaining operational flexibility. From 2025, FuelEU Maritime will tighten CO₂ reduction targets, rising from 2% to 80% by 2050. Shipowners using VentoFoil technology benefit from the Wind Reward Factor (WRF), which lowers their vessel’s reported emissions, making compliance with FuelEU Maritime, CII, and ETS regulations easier and more cost-effective. By integrating VentoFoils, they reduce fuel costs, cut carbon allowance expenses, and improve CII ratings, keeping them ahead of regulations while lowering operational costs.

Econowind, a globally renowned innovator in Wind-Assisted Ship Propulsion technologies for the maritime industry, announces the appointment of Chiel de Leeuw as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), effective December 1, 2024. Chiel will play a key role in advancing Econowind's mission to revolutionise maritime sustainability and expand the company’s impact in the global shipping industry.  Chiel de Leeuw Chiel de Leeuw brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in the maritime sector. He has previously served as Commercial Director at Oceanco, a globally renowned builder of luxury yachts. Before Oceanco, he held the position of Sales Director at Damen Shipyards Group, one of the world’s largest and most respected shipbuilding companies.   New responsibilities Chiel will be instrumental in driving Econowind’s commercial strategy and further expanding its global footprint In his new role as CCO, Chiel will be instrumental in driving Econowind’s commercial strategy and further expanding its global footprint. His extensive experience in sales, business development, and strategic partnerships is key to advancing Econowind’s mission to revolutionise the maritime industry with sustainable and cost-effective wind-assist technologies.  Green maritime operations "We are thrilled to welcome Chiel to the Econowind leadership team," said Frank Nieuwenhuis, CEO of Econowind. He adds, "His deep industry expertise and commercial acumen make him the perfect fit to lead our commercial efforts as we continue to scale our innovative solutions and support the maritime industry’s transition to greener operations. Shipping companies reap the highest wind yield per square metre in the industry with our VentoFoils."  Driving wind momentum for sustainable shipping ​ Commenting on his appointment, Chiel de Leeuw said, "I am excited to join Econowind at this pivotal moment in the company’s journey. The maritime sector is undergoing a fundamental transformation, and I look forward to contributing to Econowind’s vision of making shipping more sustainable." He adds, "It is inspiring to see shipping companies increasingly implementing Wind-Assisted Ship Propulsion systems on their vessels. I am convinced it will become the norm in the industry."  Larger VentoFoils for deep sea markets ​ Chiel’s appointment comes as Econowind accelerates its commitment to delivering innovative solutions that help shipowners and operators reduce fuel consumption and emissions, aligning with global decarbonisation goals. Building on the success of the 16-metre suction wing sails, Econowind is now developing larger VentoFoils measuring between 24 and 30 metres, demonstrating its dedication to scaling impact.