Solar Oysters
Solar Oysters, LLC offers an innovative new platform for on-site solar-powered automation for oyster aquaculture. The Solar Oysters Production System (SOPS) will expand grow capacity while decreasing the area required to grow oysters and labor demands. Our mission is to automate aquaculture through solar energy for a sustainable future.
Our concept received initial support from a partnership with the University of MD Center for Environmental Science’s Chesapeake Biological Laboratory as part of a Maryland Industrial Partnerships (MIPS) grant. In October 2021, with funding from the Abell Foundation, Solar Oysters entered a new partnership with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation's Chesapeake Oyster Alliance to introduce oyster spat on the platform.
Our concept received initial support from a partnership with the University of MD Center for Environmental Science’s Chesapeake Biological Laboratory as part of a Maryland Industrial Partnerships (MIPS) grant. In October 2021, with funding from the Abell Foundation, Solar Oysters entered a new partnership with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation's Chesapeake Oyster Alliance to introduce oyster spat on the platform.
Watch our recently deployed SOPS in action! Brought to you by NBC4 in Washington, D.C.
Take a tour of one of the preliminary concept designs. Actual SOPS may differ in size and other aspects.
Let's Bring back Oysters
Chesapeake Bay oyster landings were 120 million pounds per year at its peak. This picture reflects only the oyster shells. Used with permission from from the National Archives. |
The Future
Looking to the future, SOPS would produce millions of oysters per year. This technology will benefit oyster restoration, water quality and aquaculture. |
Benefits
A Higher Yield
Low impact, sustainable shellfish yield…and a higher yield per acre. Automation
Automates the grow cycle / less labor intensive than traditional float farms. Maintenance SIMPLE
Allows for ease of access when harvesting, performing biofouling control and system maintenance. Industry Advancement
Helps advance a growing marine aquaculture industry and aids in economic growth. Healthy
Enables oyster ultraviolet light exposure to inhibit fouling organisms. Minimal Visual IMPACT
Operates further from shore, resulting in less viewshed impact. Less INPUTS
Protein production with minimal to no inputs required such as fertilizer, fresh water, or food. Water Quality
Improved water quality due to oyster filtering – potential for generating nutrient credits for sale. Permit Friendly
Ease of permitting compared to traditional float farms. Self-Powered
Provides sufficient power for ancillary systems; water quality monitoring, platform surveillance, oxygenation; fully integrated spray wash system; navigation lighting, etc. |
OUR GOAL
Produce Oysters Economically while Cleaning the Chesapeake Bay |