Norcod orders Akva hybrid-powered feed barge pair

Central Norway-based cod farm operator Norcod has placed an order for two feed barges in a series from local supplier Akva Group.

The barges will be equipped for waterborne feeding, which Akva claims can consume up to 90 per cent less energy compared to air transport feeding.

Further, with air feeding, the feeding capacity is up to 200 kilograms per minute at distances of up to 50 metres, and then the feeding capacity decreases rapidly over longer distances. With waterborne feeding, the feeding capacity will be almost constant regardless of the length of the feeding hose.

Each barge will have a length of 29.8 metres, a beam of 12 metres, four feed silos with total capacity for 350 tonnes, eight feeding lines, and a hybrid energy supply system consisting of a 200kVa generator and a 115kWh battery pack.

Onboard facilities will include a control room, two cabins, a bathroom, a kitchen, wardrobes, and a combination workshop/veterinary room.