First Hybrid Feed Barge Deployed in Shetland by Cooke Aquaculture

Cooke Aquaculture Scotland, the leading producer of organic Scottish salmon, has launched its inaugural hybrid feed barge in Shetland, as part of its ongoing efforts to minimize its carbon emissions. The novel hybrid system, constructed by Fjord Maritime UK, has been installed at the Copister salmon farming location in Yell, Shetland. This marks the third such installation by Cooke Scotland, demonstrating their dedication to sustainable practices, following the successful implementation at Orkney locations in Mill Bay and Vestness. In 2019, Cooke undertook a review of barge power to investigate alternative power sources for the company's seawater locations in Orkney and Shetland. The hybrid system curtails fuel usage, carbon dioxide emissions, and prolongs the lifespan of the generator and equipment by utilizing the generator's residual capacity to charge the batteries. The supplementary diesel generator supplies electricity to the rest of the facility and once the batteries are fully charged, the generator ceases operation and the hybrid system powers the feed barge. Within a 24-hour timeframe, the Copister barge can achieve up to 20 hours of operation time solely from the batteries, requiring only four to six hours of power from the barge engine. Arnold Brown, Site Manager for Copister at Cooke Aquaculture Scotland, stated: "At sea, we rear our fish with utmost care, which includes employing the most advanced technology to feed them sustainably. Yell was selected as one of six islands for the Scottish Government’s Carbon Neutral Islands initiative and hybrid barges will contribute to its goal of achieving net zero for the entire country by 2045.” Steve Burns, the Managing Director for Fjord Maritime UK, commented: "Cooke prioritizes animal welfare and environmental sustainability in its salmon production, and we are privileged to be selected to support their commitment to low-impact farming. Our hybrid technology and systems monitoring platform will ensure that Cooke is at the forefront in reducing carbon emissions.” Cooke's fundamental mission is to Carefully Cultivate the Ocean, Feed the World, and Support our Communities.