From pipedream to reality?
Lerøy Seafood Group (LSG) has applied for licences to build 9 novel closed containment systems, known as "Pipe Farms".
If successful, the development licence applications – which were made on 18th April – will allow them to grow 7020 tonnes in the systems as a trial.
“We see that the model has a huge untapped potential and that concept, through a comprehensive development can be the optimal solution in closed seawater production,” Stig Nilsen EVP Aquaculture at LSG told kyst.no.
Nilsen told kyst.no that LSG has grown its expertise in closed-contaiinment aquaculture technology and made valuable observations through a pilot scheme that Lerøy Vest AS bought from Preline AS and has operated since spring 2015.
“We see that the model has a huge untapped potential and that concept, through a comprehensive development, can be the optimal solution in closed seawater production. This development will be challenging in terms of project scope and will involve a comprehensive technological boost,” says Nilsen.
The project will require investment of NOK 650-700 million (£55-60m), according to Nilsen, who sees it as a sustainable means of production, which will also help to support the country's ship building industry.
“The technology will involve a significant innovation for the industry. This innovation will be able to strengthen the industry's sustainability – environmentally, socially and economically – and become a particularly important factor when it comes to creating a more space efficient aquaculture industry.
“If we succeed with the project the design will we be able to create the technological solution which makes it possible to envision a closed aquaculture technology that meets the industry's requirements. It should also generate significant activity for the shipbuilding industry, because these facilities are of a size and nature that should make them well adapted to production in Norway,” he adds.
