Vertical-axis floating wind turbines could provide power to Chilean fish farms

The company has signed an agreement to carry out the study with what it described as “a global industrial supplier.”

The intention is to assess the ability of SeaTwirl’s floating vertical-axis wind turbines to provide renewable electricity to aquaculture assets.

The feasibility study will assess energy demand and power system requirements, environmental conditions, cost, supply chain opportunities and logistics in Chilean waters. The aim is to reduce fish farms’ dependence on the use of diesel.

The study is due to be completed during 2026, and the results will help determine next steps.

Chile is home to one of the largest aquaculture industries in the world, and the sector is pursuing ambitious sustainability goals, including reducing emissions, increasing the use of renewable power and reducing the risk of oil spills.

SeaTwirl said that while the contractual value of the agreement is limited, at approximately Skr0.8M (US$85,000), the engagement will generate revenue, and is an important step in SeaTwirl’s effort to commercialise its technology.

SeaTwirl chief executive Johan Sandberg said, “This collaboration is an exciting step in our journey to enable floating wind power wherever it is needed, and to expand the use of floating wind technology beyond traditional grid-connected applications.

“The aquaculture industry has a clear need for offshore renewable energy, and we believe our technology can deliver a robust and cost-effective solution.”

Mr Sandberg said it is also a major milestone for SeaTwirl to become involved in the southern hemisphere, where many of the challenges it is trying to address that hold back other forms of floating wind projects – such as the limited availability of vessels, yard infrastructure and cranes – are more challenging than in the north.

“We see significant potential in the aquaculture segment and look forward to beginning this journey in South America,” Mr Sandberg concluded.