FHF has launched four research projects focused on floating closed containment (FLO) technology, with a combined budget of NOK 28 million (€2.49 million). The projects will run until 2028.
The programme will examine biosecurity, sludge handling, production environments and structural integrity in floating closed aquaculture systems. Results will be published on a rolling basis, according to FHF.
One project, FLOpilot, will assess how full-scale floating closed containment operations affect water quality, fish welfare, sexual maturation and infection risk, with the aim of developing operational models for the industry.
FLOslam, led by SINTEF Ocean, will focus on sludge collection methods that protect fish welfare, food production and the environment.
A third project, FLObiosec, will examine water intake systems, treatment technologies and biosecurity strategies designed to reduce disease risk and improve operational efficiency.
The fourth project, FLOprod, will study the interaction between fish density, behaviour and hydrodynamics in floating closed pens and assess potential structural failure mechanisms.
Research partners include SINTEF Ocean, Nofima, NIVA, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Technical University of Denmark, the Norwegian Veterinary Institute, as well as industry participants including Nova Sea and Cermaq.
“Developing floating closed aquaculture requires both new knowledge and large investments,” said Jørund Larsen, department head at FHF.
FHF said it has already held a joint kick-off meeting bringing together the participating organisations to strengthen collaboration across the initiative. Results from the projects are expected to be delivered progressively through 2028.
