Industry update News
AKVA and Laxey collaborate for RAS technology in Iceland

AKVA group has announced a new contract with Laxey to advance land-based aquaculture technology in the Westman Islands, Iceland.

The contract will focus on implementing re-use technology across the first of six grow-out modules planned for the site. Each module is designed to produce 4,500 tons of salmon annually, a total output of 27,000 tons.

“We have had excellent cooperation with AKVA group on the development of our smolt RAS facility that is now up and running. We see this contract for the growout project to be a continuation of our relationship for years to come. We are happy to keep the experience of AKVA group on board,” said Hallgrímur Steinsson, chief technology officer of Laxey.

The comprehensive delivery from AKVA group includes the design and installation of advanced oxygenation and degassing systems, SCADA and electrical systems, project management and advisory services across the entire project. The project will begin in 2024.

“I am sure that the good relationship created during the execution of the Smolt RAS project will benefit this much larger Grow-out part. We have a lot of experience from previous Re-use projects that will surely contribute positively. We really look forward to continuing working with Laxey; we team up really well,” said Jacob Bregnballe, sales director at AKVA group Land-Based.

In September 2023, AKVA group and Laxey started a project to install a Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) for smolt in Vestmannaeyjar, Iceland. 

Which the company says is the “first true RAS smolt facility in the country.” The project is supported by Laxey’s EUR 42 million financing. They plan to start production in 2024.

Laxey said it aims to reach an annual production of 27,000 metric tons of Atlantic Salmon by 2031, a significant increase from Iceland’s current production. “This project signifies a shift towards land-based salmon farming in Iceland, focusing on sustainability and environmental preservation,” a press release from AKVA Group reads.