As part of the Month of the Sea, the incorporation of hybrid technology in Chile’s aquaculture industry marks a milestone in decarbonization and energy efficiency.

Electromobility is transforming various sectors, and the aquaculture industry is no exception. In Chile, the joint effort of several actors has led to the innovative integration of electric motors with green hydrogen cells, a technology that promises to revolutionize the sector. This synergy between electromobility and clean energy not only targets the salmon industry but also opens up a range of possibilities for boating, aquaculture, and fishing in general.

The final stage of this ambitious project has not been easy. Claudio Steiner, CEO of Luxmeter, highlighted: “More than a business, we see it as a necessity and an obligation for the industry to have electromobility in the salmon industry.” This commitment to sustainability has driven the adoption of hybrid solutions that combine electric motors with green hydrogen cells, thus overcoming one of the main limitations: battery autonomy.

The alliance with ZEV Chile, a company specializing in green hydrogen cells, has been crucial for this advancement. Christian Oyadanel, a representative of this company, noted: “Hydrogen cells allow the decarbonization of an industry and add value through green seals.” This technology not only improves the autonomy of electric motors but also significantly reduces CO2 emissions, contributing to the fight against climate change.

In terms of impact and acceptance, Gabriel Guajardo, director of Luxmeter and Evoy Chile, commented on the challenges and importance of this achievement: “We expect good acceptance and feedback from the industry on what we are doing to reduce CO2 emissions.” The integration of hydrogen cells will extend the autonomy of the vessels, benefiting both the salmon industry and other maritime sectors.

This project represents a significant advancement in the adoption of clean technologies in Chile. The use of green hydrogen cells in electric motors not only improves the efficiency and autonomy of the vessels but also offers tangible benefits in terms of sustainability. The ability to navigate for longer periods without relying on fossil fuels opens up new opportunities for artisanal fishing and other maritime activities.

Soon, functionality and autonomy tests will be conducted on the Evoy Chile electric motor with the hybrid system of green hydrogen cells to increase navigation autonomy by more than three times.

It is crucial to thank Mr. Erwin Plett for his support and transfer of knowledge in the implementation of the first hybrid system in Chile. Mr. Plett, CEO of Low Carbon and Co-Founder of Vast, contributed to both the technological development and the current hydrogen legislation, providing knowledge and technology to the Evoy project through ZAV Chile SPA.

We thank the collaborators:

• Ramiro Gutiérrez, Director of Evoy Chile
• Andre Flem, Director of Evoy Chile
• Gabriel Guajardo, Director of Evoy Chile
• Cristian Gutiérrez, Product Manager of Evoy Chile
• Claudio Steiner, CEO of Evoy Chile
• Christian Oyanedel, General Manager and Co-Founder of Vast
• Erwin Plett, CEO of Low Carbon and Co-Founder of Vast