Gael Force will sell and fit Fjord Hybrid systems in UK

Inverness-based aquaculture supplier Gael Force Group is to promote, sell, and install the Fjord Hybrid power system on existing feed barges across the UK in a partnership with Norwegian company Fjord Maritime.

In addition, Fjord Hybrid will be installed on new-build Gael Force feed barges for customers who choose a hybrid power solution.

Fjord Maritime global sales manager Torstein Nygård said Gael Force will also provide comprehensive local support whenever required, ensuring reliable operation and customer confidence.

Hybrid systems store excess power from a feed barge’s diesel generator in a battery pack. The extra power available from the batteries enables fish farmers to reduce generator run time and fuel costs. It also extends the life of the generator.

The first Fjord Hybrid system was installed in the UK in 2022, and the company now works closely with several key customers, including Mowi Scotland, Scottish Sea Farms, Loch Duart, and Cooke Aquaculture Scotland. Many of the systems installed were delivered in close collaboration with Gael Force Group.

“This formal partnership will allow us to combine our expertise and experience, further increasing the number of installations across the UK and providing full support on the ground,” Fjord Maritime told Fish Farming Expert.

Ongoing monitoring

Fjord Maritime will continue to be responsible for start-up, commissioning, and ongoing monitoring of all Fjord Hybrid systems following installation, which the company says is critical to getting the most from a system.

“By collecting and analysing site-specific production data from every Fjord Hybrid system, we are able to monitor performance, provide expert advice, and ensure that each system delivers energy in the most efficient way possible.  As well as significantly reducing costs and reducing environmental impact, this helps secure uptime, improve fish performance, and support optimal biological conditions.”

Gael Force Group owner and founder Stewart Graham said hybridisation of feed barges can not only improve the salmon sector’s sustainability but also significantly reduce producers’ costs.

Confident of results

“Gael Force have fitted multiple Fjord Hybrid systems over the past few years and worked closely with Fjord on these installations and are confident that these hybrids will deliver sustainable, cost efficient, and clean energy to our barges - new and retrofitted. So, we are delighted to have this agreement in place in support of our sector’s long-term sustainability," said Graham.

Fjord Maritime’s chief commercial officer, Øyvind Bakke, said: “This new partnership formalises a trusted relationship with Gael Force Group, aiming to scale secure energy solutions for Scotland’s fish farming industry. By combining our expertise with Gael Force’s proven reliability, we are driving lower emissions and higher efficiency through robust, resilient systems.”