Econowind installs WAPS on Leonhardt & Blumberg’s cargo vessel

German shipping company Leonhardt & Blumberg has partnered with Dutch wind-energy firm Econowind to install a wind-assisted propulsion system (WAPS) on its general cargo vessel Hansa Drejoe.

IMAGE: General cargo vessel Hansa Drejoe equipped with suction sails. Econowind

The system uses boundary-layer suction technology to capture wind energy and generate additional thrust. This reduces the load on the vessel’s main engine, helping to cut fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, according to Econowind.

The installation was completed in early August at Royal Niestern Sander Shipyard in the Netherlands. Hansa Drejoe is the first of four general cargo newbuilds that will be fitted with the technology. Another vessel, Hansa Christiansoe, is currently at the shipyard for installation.

Designed by marine consultancy Groot Ship Design, the four vessels form part of Leonhardt & Blumberg’s push to improve the efficiency of its fleet. Two vessels were delivered in the first half of 2025, while the remaining two are under construction in China. These vessels are expected to arrive in Europe in the first half of 2027 for final outfitting and commissioning.

Interest in wind-assisted propulsion is growing as shipowners seek practical ways to reduce fuel use and emissions. By supplementing engine power with wind-generated thrust, WAPS can lower fuel consumption while improving vessel efficiency.

Spanish wind-assisted propulsion specialist bound4blue installed a 22-metre-high rigid suction sail on a newly built multipurpose vessel (MPV) in August. Norwegian marine transportation company Odfjell has also expanded its fleet with a vessel equipped with WAPS.

By Tuhin Roy

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