UK-based Power Roll and Norwegian company Inseanergy have signed an Application Development Partner Agreement to collaborate on the use of Power Roll’s lightweight, flexible solar film in aquaculture and maritime applications. The partnership will combine Inseanergy’s proven floating photo voltaic (FPV) solutions with Power Roll’s innovative solar film to deliver new applications, improved performance and reduced costs of FPV in fish farming and other maritime applications.

Aquaculture requires substantial amounts of energy to power water aeration and pumping systems, pneumatic feeders, and heat and light for the working areas. A typical fish farm requires between 200,000 and 450,000 kWh of electricity per annum which is usually supplied either by diesel-powered generators or, for near-shore sites, via a .

Fish farms around the world are seeing significantly increased demand for their products, driven by population growth and by a societal shift away from red meat. To satisfy this demand, the aquaculture industry is expanding into more remote locations where grid connections may be too difficult or too expensive to install. Producers, retailers and regulators are constantly seeking innovative processes that meet such social and operational pressures. Solar powered energy systems will provide a lower cost, more scalable, and highly sustainable solution for the energy needs of this growth industry.

Jan Erik Vaage Klepp, Chief Executive Officer of Inseanergy, explains: “We are always on the lookout for cost effective innovations that address the unique challenges of harsh, remote and highly regulated marine environments. Inseanergy was founded on deep engineering skills and decades of industry experience to solve key sustainability challenges across in the aquaculture sector. A prime example is our innovative floating PV system, supported on recycled fish cages, which addresses both energy and materials use in salmon farms. Beyond aquaculture, we look forward to exploring opportunities for Power Roll’s lightweight, low-cost solar film as we develop wider maritime applications.