Chile’s first solar-powered net pen aims to cut aquaculture emissions and reduce diesel use

Mowi launches Chile’s first solar-powered aquaculture pen, cutting diesel use and emissions

Mowi has launched Chile’s first low-emission fish farming installation at its Huar Norte site, featuring a floating solar-powered pen. Developed in partnership with AKVA group, Alotta Energy and Fjord Maritime, the system is designed to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower carbon dioxide emissions in sea-based aquaculture operations.

“We founded Alotta to create renewable energy solutions that work where it matters most,” said Kari-Elin Hildre, CEO at Alotta Energy Chile. “Our Alotta Solar Hybrid technology has been proven along the Norwegian coast, and now it’s helping Mowi cut emissions in Chile.”

The installation relies on a hybrid energy system that combines solar generation with battery storage, allowing power to be used in real time or stored for later. Solar panels are mounted directly onto the floating pens and are built to operate in harsh marine conditions.

The shift to solar is expected to significantly cut diesel use at the Huar Norte site by an estimated 36,750 gallons per year, cutting carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 770,000 pounds annually.

In addition to lowering emissions, the system is expected to reduce boat traffic for fuel deliveries and limit noise from diesel generators, contributing to a quieter and safer work environment. Renewable energy is projected to meet 57 percent of the site’s total power demand.

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AKVA group supplied the pens, solar integration and full infrastructure, along with maintenance and service support. Fjord Maritime delivered the energy management and storage systems, while Alotta Energy powers the site through an energy-as-a-service model.

According to Alotta Energy Chile, the project demonstrates that renewable energy technology is now capable of replacing diesel in aquaculture operations worldwide.

“This is about securing stable and robust energy supply while also cutting emissions,” said Steve Burns, MD at Fjord Maritime Chile. “By combining our energy management and storage capacity with efficient solar power, we are directly contributing to more climate-friendly food production.”