Maine Ocean Farms is supercharging its operations with custom-built electric workboats and Aqua superPower's marine fast charging, setting a new standard for eco-friendly oyster farming. This project is made possible thanks to a $500,000 grant from the US Department of Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, plus another $500,000 in matching funds. This transformative initiative not only marks a significant milestone for the farm but also heralds a new era of eco-conscious aquaculture that could set a precedent for the industry nationwide.
Aqua superPower leads this groundbreaking electrification project in partnership with Maine Clean Communities. Fogg’s Boatwoks in North Yarmouth, Maine, will design and build the custom workboat, which will feature an advanced electric powertrain from marine tech leader Vita Power.
Maine Ocean Farms is dedicated to sustainably cultivating delicious oysters, furthering Maine's reputation for producing the finest oysters on the East Coast. The aquaculture industry is booming with 15% annual growth, scaling rapidly as farm density increases. Many oyster farming operations currently rely on gasoline-powered workboats, generators, pumps, and processing equipment.
Fogg's Boatworks is recognized for its custom-built welded aluminum alloy boats that feature classic design, smooth, efficient ride, and lasting durability. Vita Power will design and manufacture the electric powertrain with suitable battery size and power output for the new fleet vessel. Aqua superPower will install two DC marine fast charging stations.
The addition of electric workboats and Aqua superPower’s charging infrastructure will drastically cut the operation's carbon footprint, helping to minimize noise, air, and water pollution, leading to healthier marine ecosystems and improved water quality.
(Image credit: Marine Ocean Farms)
“Maine Ocean Farms strives to continuously innovate our operations, embracing new technologies that can drive positive environmental change while supporting local economic growth,” Willy Leathers, Director of Farm Operations and Founding Partner of Maine Ocean Farms, said. “This project will demonstrate these technologies in action, providing data and real-time experience to other farmers and industry members.”
Scott Canning, Vice President of US Business Development for Aqua superpower, first heard about Maine Ocean Farms when he learned the oyster farm co-developed a 100% compostable and biodegradable harvest bag to reduce marine plastic pollution.
“Once I met Willy and his team, it became clear to me that Maine Ocean Farms was an ideal candidate for marine electrification. Electric propulsion makes the seafood supply chain more resilient and sustainable. However, electric boats must be supported with a robust and reliable charging infrastructure; that’s Aqua’s part of the equation,” Canning said.
Sara Mills-Knapp, Director of Maine Clean Communities, said the electrification of Maine Ocean Farms' aquaculture operations represents a significant step forward in reducing emissions and noise pollution in Casco Bay.
“The electrification of Maine Ocean Farms represents more than just a technological upgrade; it’s a pioneering model for the future of aquaculture,” Mills-Knapp said. “This project will demonstrate the viability of electric marine technology for the aquaculture industry. We expect it to serve as a model that can be replicated by other coastal operations, helping to build a more sustainable and resilient marine economy in Maine.”
As part of this project, the team will gather real-time data to measure environmental and emissions reductions. Collaborating with powertrain developer and manufacturer Vita Power, they will select the ideal system to transition vessels from ICE to electric. This project will showcase these technologies in action, providing a blueprint for other farmers and live data on their benefits.
Maine Ocean Farms is committed to continuously enhancing its processes and products to positively impact Maine’s waters and the communities it serves. With a deep connection to the ocean at its core, the company prioritizes sustainability and innovation. The integration of marine electrification into its operations reflects Maine Ocean Farms’ dedication to minimizing its environmental footprint.
You can find Aqua superPower and Vita Power at IBEX 24, October 1–3, stand 2-304, to see the cutting-edge Vita powertrain—developed for Maine Ocean Farms' new electric work boat.
