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Description
LED lamps used in marine fish farms are generally designed in a way that does not allow for the replacement of components that are most vulnerable to damage. This means that the entire lamp must be replaced if any of its components are damaged, which shortens the actual lifecycle of the lamps to an average of 2–3 seasons, even though theoretically they should last up to 5 seasons. Therefore, the project will create an LED lamp with increased resistance to damage, in which – in addition- individual components can be replaced. With these features, the actual lifecycle of the lamp will be extended to a minimum of 5–6 seasons. The concept of the new lamp was developed by the PARTEN owner in cooperation with the Norwegian project partner ELIX AS which installs and services lamps at salmon farms.
The project includes the development of the design and prototype of a new specialised LED light fixture for marine fish farming, as well as the purchase of equipment and moulds for their production, the execution of a test batch of lamps, and the development of technical and marketing materials. The project partner will be responsible for conducting parameters and safety tests on the light fixture and testing the first 20 units on salmon farms in Norway. After testing and possible refinement of the design, an IPR application for the industrial design of the lamp will be filed.
Summary of project results
The objective of the project was to enhance the competitiveness of PARTEN by introducing an innovative product: LED lamps specifically designed for marine fish farming. This product aimed to support the growth of PARTEN’s business through increased revenues and profits by tapping into a new market segment with specialized needs. The project addressed several key challenges in the industry. Firstly, traditional lighting used in marine fish farming often lacks efficiency and environmental sustainability. By creating LED lamps that are safe and optimized for marine use, particularly for species like salmon, the project aimed to reduce the ecological footprint of fish farming operations and minimize pollution in marine waters.
In addition to addressing environmental concerns, the project focused on ensuring product durability and effectiveness under challenging marine conditions, which required careful design and real-world testing at multiple depths and locations. These testing phases not only verified the product’s effectiveness but also provided valuable data for refining technical parameters to better suit fish farming applications.
Project activities included both the development and commercialisation of this innovative product. Through these activities, the project contributed to job creation, as one position was directly generated by the project, and intellectual property was strengthened by filing an industrial design for the LED lamps. This comprehensive approach allowed PARTEN to build a unique market offering, aligning economic growth with environmental stewardship.
- Development of Project Objectives:
- New Product Development.
The design and creation of an innovative LED lighting fixture specifically engineered for marine fish farming were carried out. The lighting fixture was tailored to the unique requirements of fish farming environments, particularly for species like salmon, to support optimal growth and welfare.
- Commissioning Research on Safety.
Research was commissioned to assess the lighting fixture’s technical parameters. The research focused on ensuring the safety and environmental compatibility of the LED fixture for marine fish farming applications, particularly in open water and tank environments.
- Development of Technical and Marketing Documentation.
Detailed technical and marketing resources were developed to support the product’s introduction to the market.
- Production of a Test Batch.
An initial test batch of LED luminaires was produced to assess conditions and quality under controlled scenarios prior to full-scale production.
- Salmon Farm Testing Service Acquisition.
Real-life testing of the LED luminaires on a salmon farm was arranged. This testing was conducted in a marine environment to verify effectiveness and durability in operational conditions. The tests were carried out by the Norwegian project partner at four different locations, allowing us to test the lamps under various conditions and at different depths.
- Business Trip to Norway.
A business trip to Norway was organized to conduct in-person meetings with a project partner in the marine fish farming industry. These meetings facilitated discussions on testing procedures, gathered user insights, and explored potential collaborations for future product deployment.
II. Implementation of Project Subject:
- Acquisition of Production Machinery and Equipment.
Specialized machinery and equipment were purchased to support the production process of the LED luminaires, ensuring efficient manufacturing that met industry standards.
- Purchase of Molds for LED Luminaire Housing.
Custom molds for producing the luminaire housing were acquired, specifically designed to endure the harsh marine environment associated with sea fish farming.
The project achieved several valuable outcomes, benefiting both the users of the solution (owners of marine fish farms) and the applicant, PARTEN.
For the users of the solution (marine fish farm owners): The innovative LED lamps offer a significant advantage due to their modular design, which allows for the replacement of individual lamp components rather than the entire unit. This design feature extends the actual lifetime of the lamps, directly reducing maintenance and replacement costs. In an industry where lamp durability is critical, this innovation means that farm operators can lower operational expenses while maintaining the necessary lighting conditions for fish welfare and growth. Additionally, by reducing the need for frequent replacements, the amount of generated electronic waste is minimized, contributing to a more sustainable operational model for fish farming businesses.
For the applicant, PARTEN: The introduction of this new product represents a major milestone, as it diversifies PARTEN’s offerings and opens up new business avenues. Previously focused exclusively on design services, the company has now expanded into manufacturing with a specialized product tailored to the needs of the marine fish farming industry. This extension of PARTEN''s portfolio will not only strengthen the company''s competitiveness but also attract a broader client base. By entering the production sector, PARTEN can increase its turnover and income, securing a stronger market position and enhancing its reputation as an innovator in sustainable LED lighting solutions. This project thus sets the stage for PARTEN’s long-term growth and enables the company to address evolving industry needs.
Summary of bilateral results
The partner provided a service to test the lamps under marine conditions. The test batch of lamps was installed by the partner on salmon farms. The partner conducted an observation of the technical, electrical and mechanical parameters of the lamp. He also carried out an observation on whether the lamp was negatively affecting the salmon population. The partner has made contact with several salmon farm owners, and each of them has been very optimistic about inquiring about the possibility of testing the lamps at their locations.Thanks to the collaboration, it was possible to refine the product with the end customer''s feedback in mind.For the time being, there are no specific plans for further cooperation with the partner, but we will stay in touch.