by Torstein Nygård, Global Sales Manager, Fjord Maritime, Norway
The aquaculture industry is under increasing pressure to improve sustainability, optimise energy use, and reduce environmental impact. As global food demand rises, the need for efficient and innovative solutions becomes paramount. One such groundbreaking technology is Fjord Hybrid, a hybrid energy system designed to enhance operational efficiency while drastically reducing emissions and fuel consumption on fish farming facilities.
Addressing energy challenges
Aquaculture facilities, particularly feed barges, require significant amounts of energy to maintain optimal fish welfare and production. Traditionally, diesel generators have been the primary energy source, but they present multiple challenges: high fuel consumption, frequent maintenance, greenhouse gas emissions, and noise pollution.
The energy demand fluctuates throughout the production cycle, with peak usage periods accounting for only a small fraction of total operations. However, these peaks dictate generator capacity, leading to oversized and inefficient energy systems.
Fjord Hybrid optimises energy production by integrating batteries with diesel generators and shore power connections. The system ensures that energy is produced and consumed as efficiently as possible, reducing waste and stabilising energy output. By leveraging stored energy, this system minimises the need for continuous generator operation, significantly cutting fuel consumption and carbon emissions.
Optimising energy production
One of the most impactful benefits of this energy system is its ability to reduce diesel generator runtime by up to 90 percent. The system uses existing generator capacity to charge batteries while the generator is running efficiently. Once the batteries are charged, the generator shuts down, and the hybrid system seamlessly takes over, supplying the facility with stored energy. This not only extends the lifespan of generators but also lowers maintenance costs and fuel expenses.
By optimising generator operations and utilising stored energy, this system can achieve up to 90 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. This contributes directly to the aquaculture industry’s sustainability goals and regulatory compliance with emission reduction targets.
Ensuring a continuous energy supply is critical for fish welfare and system stability. This system provides a fail-safe energy backup, ensuring that operations continue seamlessly even in cases of generator failure or power supply issues. This makes the system particularly valuable for remote aquaculture sites where energy stability is a challenge.
This system is designed to be compatible with renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, wave, and tidal energy. This future-proof approach allows fish farmers to transition towards more sustainable energy sources as they become more viable in aquaculture operations.
The integration of Fjord Control, a real-time monitoring and AI-driven analytics platform, allows operators to track energy usage, optimise power distribution, and predict maintenance needs. With over three million data points collected daily, it provides deep insights into energy consumption, enabling farmers to make data-driven decisions that enhance efficiency and sustainability.
Advancing sustainability in aquaculture
Sustainability is at the forefront of modern aquaculture, and Fjord Hybrid plays a crucial role in reducing the carbon footprint of fish farming operations. By slashing emissions and lowering fuel dependency, the system helps fish farms align with global sustainability initiatives while also reducing operational costs.
Furthermore, lower noise levels and reduced water pollution from diesel emissions contribute to improved environmental conditions in and around aquaculture sites. This benefits not only farmed fish but also local marine ecosystems and communities.
Driving innovation in energy management
Fjord Hybrid is a prime example of technological innovation in aquaculture energy systems. Its AI-driven optimisation, seamless integration with shore power and renewables, and hybrid energy storage make it a cutting-edge solution tailored to the industry’s evolving needs.
Companies like Lerøy Vest and SalmoNor have already seen substantial benefits from adopting Fjord Hybrid, including reduced fuel consumption, lower operational costs, and improved sustainability metrics. As more industry players adopt hybrid solutions, aquaculture is set to become a leader in energy efficiency innovation.
Enhancing food security
With the global population expected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, securing a sustainable food supply is a top priority. Aquaculture is a key contributor to global food security, but reliable energy is essential for ensuring consistent fish production, feed delivery, and water quality control.
Fjord Hybrid’s uninterrupted energy supply ensures that fish receive the necessary conditions for optimal growth, reducing production risks and minimising losses. The ability to store and utilise energy efficiently means that fish farms can maintain operations even during power outages or generator failures, ensuring a stable food supply.
Future of energy in aquaculture
As the aquaculture industry continues to grow, energy efficiency and sustainability will be key drivers of success. This system offers a scalable, adaptable, and future-proof solution for fish farmers looking to reduce costs, minimise environmental impact, and enhance operational reliability.
With the way the industry is evolving, hybrid energy systems will likely become the industry standard. As AI and automation further improve system efficiency, and as renewable energy sources become more integrated, Fjord Hybrid is set to play a vital role in shaping the future of sustainable aquaculture. By investing in innovative solutions like this, the aquaculture industry is taking a proactive step towards a greener, more efficient, and food-secure future.
Published in the April 2025 issue of International Aquafeed & Fish Farming Technology
