Technology giant opens aquaculture business

THE big Norwegian technology and industrial group Moreld has launched its own aquaculture section and said immediately afterwards it was teaming up with the big offshore and engineering consultancy Global Maritime and salmon farmer Erko Seafood to develop a new offshore concept.

The new business unit is called Moreld Aqua which will have in-house access to competitive technologies within offshore fish farm design, digital solutions and hybrid battery modules.

Meanwhile, Moreld, Erko and GM Aqua Design will be working closely over the next few months to prove the concept’s advantages and are aiming to build and operate the first pilot.

“We are pleased to see the GM Aqua Design project moving forward, we believe that developing this concept that preserves the salmon’s welfare in its natural habitat, is part of the solution to reach the industry’s sustainable growth ambitions.” said Erko chairman Endre Haugland.

Moreld, which has around 3,200 employees and is a major player in the offshore energy industry, said it was proud to present the new unit.

Moreld Aqua will function as the group’s focal point towards the aquaculture industry with an ambition to support fish farmers in applying new production technologies and reducing their environmental footprint.

“We are also pleased to announce that Helge Hydle (from the wider Moreld group) has been brought onboard to lead the new business unit. Helge brings with him over 15 years of experience from the offshore and maritime industry.”

Hydle said Moreld Aqua plans to capitalise on the parent group’s expertise in a number of disciplines including energy management and marine operations.

“With the emergence of new and more complex production methods for fish farming, both on- and offshore, we believe our experience from the energy industry will contribute to safe operations and sustainable growth.”

He added: “We are convinced that to reach the Norwegian government’s vision of five million tonnes of sustainable aquaculture production in 2050, new methods for production will need to be developed.”

Erko chairman Endre Haugland, said: “ “We are pleased to see the GM Aqua design project moving forward, we believe that developing this concept that preserves the salmon’s welfare in its natural habitat, is part of the solution to reach the industry’s sustainable growth ambitions.”

Erko Seafood AS, which is Global Gap certified, has a strong focus on running its business as environmentally as possible.

It says: “Our recognition is that the best environmental conditions create the best quality of the fish. With good biological production, the profitability of the company will also be strengthened.”