DNV Approval Clears the Way for Faster Deployment of Econowind VentoFoils on Global Fleet
(By: Econowind)
Wind-assisted ship propulsion has received another boost after Econowind secured a Type Approval Design Certificate (TADC) from leading classification society DNV for its VentoFoil 3-Series boundary layer suction wing. The approval confirms the system complies with DNV’s ST-0511 standard for Wind-Assisted Propulsion Systems (WAPS), making it easier to integrate the technology on DNV-classed vessels worldwide.
The certification is expected to accelerate the adoption of wind-assisted propulsion by simplifying the approval process for both newbuilding and retrofit projects. Shipowners and shipyards can now install the certified VentoFoil design without undergoing a complete design assessment for every project, reducing both time and complexity.
Chiel de Leeuw, Chief Commercial Officer at Econowind, described the approval as an important milestone for the company and the wider shipping industry.
“DNV is one of the world’s leading classification societies. This Type Approval Design Certificate gives DNV-classed shipowners confidence that VentoFoils meet the highest industry standards. It also simplifies the approval process for retrofits and newbuilds, supporting wider adoption of wind-assisted propulsion,” he said.
The 16-metre VentoFoil 3-Series is currently Econowind’s best-selling wind propulsion solution, with more than 150 units sold. The technology uses controlled airflow and wind energy to generate additional forward thrust, helping ships reduce fuel consumption, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and improve compliance with Europe’s FuelEU Maritime regulations.
A key feature of the system is its tilting foundation, allowing the wings to be lowered during port operations or adverse weather, offering greater operational flexibility without compromising vessel safety.
According to Econowind, the DNV certification enables project teams to move more efficiently from concept to installation while supporting faster deployment across the global fleet.
Commenting on the growing momentum of wind-assisted propulsion, Hasso Hoffmeister, Senior Principal Engineer at DNV Maritime, noted that the number of vessels equipped with Wind-Assisted Propulsion Systems has increased fivefold since 2022.
“It is a great pleasure to award Econowind this new certificate. Wind-Assisted Propulsion Systems have grown significantly in recent years, with the number of operational vessels now exceeding one hundred. Continued advances in technology, materials and production capacity are expected to further accelerate adoption across the shipping industry,” Hoffmeister said.
Econowind believes the certification will encourage more shipowners to invest in independently verified wind propulsion technologies that deliver measurable fuel savings while supporting international decarbonisation targets.
Among the first vessels operating under the newly approved design is MS Heinz, managed by HS Schiffahrt.
With shipping facing increasing pressure to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions, the latest DNV approval further strengthens confidence in wind-assisted propulsion as a practical and commercially viable solution. In addition to the 3-Series, Econowind also offers its larger 5-Series VentoFoil for deep-sea vessels.
