Demand for hybrid solutions for new feed barges after launch has been high.
In a press release, equipment and solution provider ScaleAQ writes that there has been an uptake for hybrid solutions in new feed barges. Most of the new vessels come with tech that can reduce emissions by up to 60 per-cent.
“We see that there clerly has been a need for this solution. The farmers are concerned about sustainability and economics, we notice this especially well in the demand for our hybrid solutions for feed barges,” said Scale AQ sustanability director Hanne Digre.
“The aquaculture industry is often seen as an industry that does not take sustainability seriously, often to the great frustration of us on the inside who see the good work being done. in fact, aquaculture is one of the most sustainable ways of food production and we notice that sustainability has become an important decision criterion for our customers, including when choosing feed barges.
She explained that the company launched its Hybrid Power System earlier this year, it has sold 10 barges with the system.
“It is not only Norwegian fish farmers who are concerned about this, both Scottish and Icelandic customers have ordered hybridised rafts,” she said
“On average, our system reduces fuel consumption by 45 per-cent, but it is possible to achieve a reduction of up to 60 per-cent. Engines are allowed to run under optimal operating conditions, this means that they utilize the fuel to the maximum and it also prolongs the life of the engine. On pure generator operation, a locality can use 120,000 liters on a generation of fish. A reduction of up to 60 per-cent is definetely noticeable on the wallet and overall gives a significant reduction in emissions. The salmon farmers’ investments thus provide an annual saving on emissions corresponding to just over 80 cars,” added Digre.
“It is not only the environment that benefits from hybridisation. A hybrid-powered barge is a more pleasant place to be for the crew. Noise and vibration can be kept to a minimum. When you work in the noise all day, and have done so for many years, you often stop noticing it, but when the batteries take over for the generator, you notice a huge difference, “explains Digre, who also said that neighbors of fish farms will notice less noise from the facility. “This means a better working day for hundreds of people,” she concluded.
