The project has been ongoing for six years, during which more than NOK 50 million has been spent on studies and documentation. Throughout the process, Hofseth has made continuous adjustments to address objections raised by Norwegian authorities.
CEO Roger Hofseth expects the changes to pave the way for a positive outcome: “We have a responsibility to preserve Storfjorden, and we strongly believe that the changes now being made will address the remaining issues so that we can realize the project. We remain committed to making this project the world's most sustainable land-based aquaculture facility and to safeguarding the fjord.”
In its revised form, the project will create 120–130 new jobs when fully operational and will generate significant economic benefits for the region, both during the construction phase and in the operational phase. The project has enjoyed strong support from the local community and elected representatives in Fjord Municipality throughout the process. Their support has been a source of motivation and a constant reminder of the value the project will create for the region.
The case is currently under review by the Norwegian Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development. Hofseth expects the proposed adjustments to address the remaining objections and lead to a positive decision. Following approval, the next step will be detailed engineering and the submission of a final licence application.
Key sustainability features of the project:
- Minimal environmental footprint through a fully enclosed facility
- Very low environmental impact due to zero escape risk and automatic collection, recovery and treatment of sludge and surplus water
- Excellent fish welfare thanks to optimal water conditions, greatly reduced risk of disease and no sea lice
- 100% renewable energy through the use of local hydropower
- Zero food waste with all parts of the fish being utilised for marine nutrition and form part of Hofseth's sustainable value chain from roe to consumer.
- Raudbergvika has a long industrial history, with commercial and mining operations continuing until 2020.