Concrete progress for Vónin's new Scottish net station

Construction work is under way on aquaculture supplier Vónin Scotland’s new net service station next to salmon farmer Mowi’s feed plant at Kyleakin, Skye.

The company said the state-of-the-art facility is dedicated to the comprehensive maintenance of fish farming equipment, including the washing, repairing, antifouling, coating, and drying of nets. The station is also equipped to service lice skirts, with large washing drums capable of handling nets up to 200 metres.

Faroes-headquartered Vónin, which officially announced the takeover of net supplier Mørenot Scotland in January, said its 2,500m² Kyleakin station will be a paragon of environmental responsibility. It will utilise green energy for heating and features enhanced insulation, reducing its energy footprint.

Powered by biofouling

The station's sustainability features include converting the biofouling washed from nets into biogas which will then be used to create electricity and heat that is used on site or sold back into the grid. The heat produced by this solution can also be used to replace gas, oil and diesel.

Vónin, which has been granted more than £955,000 by the Scottish Government towards the £3.2 million cost of the net station, will also recycle all recyclable materials.

The company said its new facility mirrors the efficiency of the group’s existing service stations in Scotland, Norway, and the Faroe Islands, maintaining high standards of operational excellence. It complements Vónin Scotland’s other stations located in Scalloway in Shetland and Scalpay in the Hebrides, ensuring comprehensive coverage and support across key regions.

15 jobs

Strategically located close to customers, the station is accessible by both road and sea, reducing the need for long-distance transportation, significantly cutting carbon emissions and underscoring Vónin's commitment to eco-friendly practices.

The idea for the Kyleakin service station was hatched two years ago, and now that construction has started the facility is expected to be operational next year. The service station will create approximately 15 jobs.

A company spokesperson said: “As Vónin Scotland expands its footprint with the Kyleakin station, it continues to set industry standards for innovation and sustainability. The facility is not just a boost for Vónin but a significant advancement for the Scottish salmon farming industry, promising a greener, more efficient future.”