Bakkafrost Scotland has recently started work to install a 16-mile-long cable that will provide 100% renewable energy to its facility in Applecross, Wester Ross.
The project will see clean green electricity taken from a nearby hydroelectric scheme to power the salmon producer’s state of the art Recirculation Aquaculture System (RAS).
RAS ensure the optimum environmental conditions for healthy growth of young salmon in freshwater stages by controlling water parameters such as temperature, pH and oxygen.
Extensive consultation has taken place with the local community and will see sections of the famous Bealach na Bà road to Applecross improved on completion of the works including an additional passing place and resurfacing.
Ian Laister, Bakkafrost Scotland’s managing director said:
“The installation of the power wire is a significant undertaking and re-emphasises our commitment to be a sustainable salmon producer.
“The facility we are building at Applecross will be the largest and most sustainable of its kind in Scotland.
“Our ambition is that by using RAS we will be able to reduce the amount of water used in the process by 90 per cent, reduce waste by 90 per cent and use 100 per cent sustainable power.
“Hydro, solar, recycled material, and heat recovery systems will all be utilised to reduce impact on the environment.”
The Applecross project is a collaboration with Foster Turner which already has a hydro scheme on Applecross Estate.
The works are expected to be complete by the end of spring 2025.
Ian Laister added:
“Salmon farming is a significant source of employment.
“Jobs in our sector (91 jobs in Wester Ross), and across the rural communities, cover almost the entire value chain from freshwater to marine and processing.
“In turn, this contributes to the economic well-being of the rural populations, offering employment and a steady income source.
“This investment demonstrates our commitment to sustainable business practice and the rural economy.
“Bakkafrost Scotland can positively impact the social fabric and economic viability of the rural areas in which we live and work.”
Supporting the Scottish economy is a key business objective for Bakkafrost and it has 126 local suppliers in the Highlands, using its local sourcing policy.
