ECOSYSTEM BENEFIT
A Platform That Gives Back to the Water.
Oysters are ecological powerhouses. As they grow, they filter water, remove excess nutrients, and create critical habitats for other marine life. SOPS enables sustainable, high-density oyster farming that
actively improves water quality and supports biodiversity. These environmental benefits also open the door to generating nutrient credits—creating new value for growers and communities alike.
BETTER OYSTERS
BY DESIGN
Higher Meat-to-Shell Ratios.
More Uniform Shape.
Greater Survivability.
Oysters grown on SOPS benefit from regular tumbling and optimal water exposure, producing oysters with smoother shells and more meat per shell. SOPS can support both single seed and spat-on-shell oysters—for commercial sale or reef restoration, while delivering higher survival rates than traditional methods. SOPS design is patent pending.
SOPS design is patent pending
BETTER OYSTERS
BY DESIGN
Higher Meat-to-Shell Ratios.
More Uniform Shape. Greater Survivability.
Oysters grown on SOPS benefit from regular tumbling and optimal water exposure, producing oysters with smoother shells and more meat per shell. SOPS can support both single seed and spat-on-shell oysters—for commercial sale or reef restoration, while delivering higher survival rates than traditional methods.
Oysters grown on SOPS benefit from regular
tumbling and optimal water exposure, producing
oysters with smoother shells and more meat per shell. SOPS can support both single seed and
spat-on-shell oysters—for commercial sale or
reef restoration—while delivering higher
survival rates than traditional methods.
From prototype to production
with trusted partners.
SOPS began with an 8’ x 6’ prototype
tested with the University of Maryland’s Chesapeake Biological Laboratory.
In 2021, a full 40’ x 25’ prototype launched
in Baltimore Harbor through partnerships
with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation and the Abell Foundation, growing over 400,000 oysters with high survivability and strong growth rates. Today, SOPS is deployed with Hoopers Island Oyster Company in Fishing Bay, where it continues to evolve on an active aquaculture lease in real-world conditions.
TESTED. PROVEN.
INNOVATING.
From Prototype to Production
with Trusted Partners.
SOPS began with an 8’ x 6’ prototype tested with the University of Maryland’s Chesapeake Biological Laboratory. In 2021, a full 40’ x 25’ prototype launched in Baltimore Harbor through partnerships with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation and the Abell Foundation, growing over 400,000 oysters with high survivability and strong growth rates. Today, SOPS is deployed with Hoopers Island Oyster Company in Fishing Bay,
where it continues to evolve on an active aquaculture lease in real-world conditions.
BETTER OYSTERS
BY DESIGN
Higher Meat-to-Shell Ratios.
More Uniform Shape. Greater Survivability.
Oysters grown on SOPS benefit from regular tumbling and optimal water exposure, producing oysters with smoother shells and more meat per shell. SOPS can support both single seed and spat-on-shell oysters—for commercial sale or reef restoration, while delivering higher survival rates than traditional methods.
Oysters grown on SOPS benefit from regular
tumbling and optimal water exposure, producing
oysters with smoother shells and more meat per shell. SOPS can support both single seed and
spat-on-shell oysters—for commercial sale or
reef restoration—while delivering higher
survival rates than traditional methods.
HOW IT WORKS
Solar-driven, fully automated,
and built for the future.
SOPS is powered by twelve 375-watt solar panels, which support a range of automated systems—including rotating ladders, a spray wash system, surveillance, navigation lights, and environmental monitoring. Each platform supports 575 oyster cages on five vertical ladders, which rotate through the water column to optimize growing conditions. Rotation sequences can be tailored to each grower’s needs. Cages are periodically lifted out of the water to allow natural UV exposure, reducing biofouling and keeping oysters healthy with less maintenance. The result: stronger oysters, smoother shells, higher yields, and lower labor demands.
WHAT IS SOPS?
Smarter aquaculture, powered by the sun
The Solar Oysters Production System (SOPS) is a solar powered, automated platform that reimagines oyster farming. Designed for both restoration and commercial use, SOPS dramatically expands oyster-growing capacity — using less space, less labor, and far more precision.
All while improving water quality
and restoring ecosystems.
SOPS unlocks new offshore farming potential, helping the blue economy grow while restoring vital marine ecosystems. Whether for reef restoration or market-ready harvest, SOPS supports high-yield, high-impact oyster production that feeds communities and heals our waters.
WHAT IS SOPS?
Smarter aquaculture, powered by the sun
The Solar Oysters Production System (SOPS)
is a solar powered, automated platform that reimagines oyster farming. Designed for both restoration and commercial use, SOPS dramatically expands oyster-growing capacity — using less space, less labor, and far more precision.
All while improving water quality
and restoring ecosystems.
HOW IT WORKS
Solar-driven, fully automated,
and built for the future.
SOPS is powered by twelve 375-watt solar panels, which support a range of automated systems—including rotating ladders, a spray wash system, surveillance, navigation lights, and environmental monitoring. Each platform supports 575 oyster cages on five vertical ladders, which rotate through the water column to optimize growing conditions. Rotation sequences can be tailored
to each grower’s needs. Cages are periodically lifted out of the water to allow natural UV
exposure, reducing biofouling and keeping
oysters healthy with less maintenance.
The result: stronger oysters, smoother shells, higher yields, and lower labor demands.
The Solar Oysters Production System (SOPS) is a solar powered, automated platform that reimagines oyster farming. Designed for both restoration and commercial use, SOPS dramatically expands oyster-growing capacity — using less space, less labor, and far more precision. All while improving water quality and restoring ecosystems.
WHAT IS SOPS?
Smarter aquaculture, powered by the sun
The Solar Oysters Production System (SOPS) is a patent pending, solar powered, automated platform that reimagines oyster farming. Designed for both restoration and commercial use, SOPS dramatically expands oyster-growing capacity — using less space, less labor, and far more precision. All while improving water quality and restoring ecosystems.
SOPS design is patent pending
Solar-Driven, Fully Automated, and Built for the Future
HOW IT WORKS
Solar-driven, fully automated, and built for the future.
SOPS is powered by twelve 375-watt solar panels, which support a range of automated systems—including rotating ladders, a spray wash system, surveillance, navigation lights, and environmental monitoring. Each platform supports 575 oyster cages on five vertical ladders, which rotate through the water column to optimize growing conditions. Rotation sequences can be tailored to each grower’s needs. Cages are periodically lifted out of the water to allow natural UV exposure, reducing biofouling and keeping oysters healthy with less maintenance. The result: stronger oysters, smoother shells, higher yields, and lower labor demands.
BETTER OYSTERS
BY DESIGN
Higher Meat-to-Shell Ratios.
More Uniform Shape. Greater Survivability.
Oysters grown on SOPS benefit from regular tumbling and optimal water exposure, producing oysters with smoother shells and more meat per shell. SOPS can support both single seed and spat-on-shell oysters—for commercial sale or reef restoration, while delivering higher survival rates than traditional methods.
BETTER OYSTERS
BY DESIGN
Higher Meat-to-Shell Ratios.
More Uniform Shape. Greater Survivability.
Oysters grown on SOPS benefit from regular tumbling and optimal water exposure, producing oysters with smoother shells and more meat per shell. SOPS can support both single seed and spat-on-shell oysters—for commercial sale or reef restoration, while delivering higher survival rates than traditional methods.
From prototype to production
with trusted partners.
SOPS began with an 8’ x 6’ prototype
tested with the University of Maryland’s Chesapeake Biological Laboratory.
In 2021, a full 40’ x 25’ prototype launched
in Baltimore Harbor through partnerships
with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation and the Abell Foundation, growing over 400,000 oysters with high survivability and strong growth rates. Today, SOPS is deployed with Hoopers Island Oyster Company in Fishing Bay, where it continues to evolve on an active aquaculture lease in real-world conditions.
TESTED. PROVEN.
INNOVATING.
From Prototype to Production with Trusted Partners.
SOPS began with an 8’ x 6’ prototype tested with the University of Maryland’s Chesapeake Biological Laboratory. In 2021, a full 40’ x 25’ prototype launched in Baltimore Harbor through partnerships with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation and the Abell Foundation, growing over 400,000 oysters with high survivability and strong growth rates. Today, SOPS is deployed with Hoopers Island Oyster Company in Fishing Bay, where it continues to evolve on an active aquaculture lease in real-world conditions.
SOPS design is patent pending
From prototype to production with trusted partners. 5
TESTED. PROVEN.
INNOVATING.
From Prototype to Production with Trusted Partners.
SOPS began with an 8’ x 6’ prototype tested with the University of Maryland’s Chesapeake Biological Laboratory. In 2021, a full 40’ x 25’ prototype launched in Baltimore Harbor through partnerships with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation and the Abell Foundation, growing over 400,000 oysters with high survivability and strong growth rates. Today, SOPS is deployed with Hoopers Island Oyster Company in Fishing Bay, where it continues to evolve on an active aquaculture lease in real-world conditions.
From prototype to production
with trusted partners.
SOPS began with an 8’ x 6’ prototype
tested with the University of Maryland’s Chesapeake Biological Laboratory.
In 2021, a full 40’ x 25’ prototype launched
in Baltimore Harbor through partnerships
with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation and the Abell Foundation, growing over 400,000 oysters with high survivability and strong growth rates. Today, SOPS is deployed with Hoopers Island Oyster Company in Fishing Bay, where it continues to evolve on an active aquaculture lease in real-world conditions.
ECOSYSTEM BENEFIT
A Platform That Gives Back to the Water.
Oysters are ecological powerhouses. As they grow, they filter water, remove excess nutrients, and create critical habitats for other marine life. SOPS enables sustainable, high-density oyster farming that
actively improves water quality and supports biodiversity. These environmental benefits also open the door to generating nutrient credits—creating new value for growers and communities alike.
BUILT TO GROW
WITH YOU
Modular. Scalable. Customizable.
Made for the Future of Aquaculture.
Whether you’re launching a new farm or scaling up an existing operation, the Solar Oysters Production System (SOPS) is designed to evolve with you. Its modular construction makes installation straightforward and expansion simple, while its customizable layout adapts to different site conditions and operational goals. From single-unit setups to large-scale deployments, SOPS offers flexibility without compromise—meeting you where you are, and growing with you every step of the way.
BUILT TO GROW
WITH YOU
Modular. Scalable. Customizable.
Made for the Future of Aquaculture.
Whether you’re launching a new farm or scaling up an existing operation, the Solar Oysters Production System (SOPS) is designed to evolve with you. Its modular construction makes installation straightforward and expansion simple, while its customizable layout adapts to different site conditions and operational goals. From single-unit setups to large-scale deployments, SOPS offers flexibility without compromise—meeting you where you are, and growing with you every step of the way.
A platform that gives
back to the water.
Oysters are ecological powerhouses. As they grow on SOPS, they filter water, remove excess nutrients, stabilize sediment, and create critical habitats for other marine life. SOPS enables sustainable, high-density oyster farming that actively improves water quality and supports biodiversity. These environmental benefits also open the door to generating nutrient credits—creating new value for growers and communities alike.
EXPEDITED PERMITTING. EASIER DEPLOYMENT.
We handle the regulatory process so you can stay focused on what matters most—growing oysters.
With a proven track record in navigating regulatory approvals, Solar Oysters helps farmers get SOPS in the water faster and with fewer hassles. From site selection to lease applications and environmental reviews, we guide every step, accelerating your path to production.
BUILT TO GROW
WITH YOU
Modular. Scalable. Customizable.
Made for the Future of Aquaculture.
Whether you’re launching a new farm or scaling up an existing operation, the Solar Oysters Production System (SOPS) is designed to evolve with you. Its modular construction makes installation straightforward and expansion simple, while its customizable layout adapts to different site conditions and operational goals. From single-unit setups to large-scale deployments, SOPS offers flexibility without compromise—meeting you where you are, and growing with you every step of the way.
We handle the regulatory process so you can stay focused on what matters most—growing oysters.
With a proven track record in navigating regulatory approvals, Solar Oysters helps farmers get SOPS in the water faster and with fewer hassles. From site selection to lease applications and environmental reviews, we guide every step, accelerating your path to production.
EXPEDITED PERMITTING.
EASIER DEPLOYMENT.
With a proven track record in navigating regulatory approvals, Solar Oysters helps farmers get SOPS in the water faster and with fewer hassles. From site selection to lease applications and environmental reviews, we guide every step, accelerating your path to production.
We handle the regulatory process so you can stay focused on what matters most—growing oysters.
With a proven track record in navigating regulatory approvals, Solar Oysters helps farmers get SOPS in the water faster and with fewer hassles. From site selection to lease applications and environmental reviews, we guide every step, accelerating your path to production.
EXPEDITED PERMITTING.
EASIER DEPLOYMENT.
With a proven track record in navigating regulatory approvals, Solar Oysters helps farmers get SOPS in the water faster and with fewer hassles. From site selection to lease applications and environmental reviews, we guide every step, accelerating your path to production.
We handle the regulatory process so
you can stay focused on what matters
most—growing oysters.
With a proven track record in navigating regulatory approvals, Solar Oysters helps farmers get SOPS in the water faster and with fewer hassles. From site selection to lease applications and environmental reviews, we guide every step, accelerating your path to production.
With a proven track record in navigating regulatory approvals, Solar Oysters helps farmers get SOPS in the water faster and with fewer hassles. From site selection to lease applications and environmental reviews, we guide every step, accelerating your path to production.
With a proven track record in navigating regulatory approvals, Solar Oysters helps farmers get SOPS in the water faster and with fewer hassles. From site selection to lease applications and environmental reviews, we guide every step, accelerating your path to production.
Initially we anticipate SOPS can be built and delivered within 4-6 months of an order being placed. We can assist in initial startup and operation or for long term support enter into a service contract.
FAQs
WHAT IS SOPS?
The Solar Oysters Production System (SOPS) is a solar powered, floating oyster production system. A 40ft x 25ft patent pending prototype has been built to test the technology. Baskets are suspended vertically into the water column and rotated using solar power.
HOW MUCH SOLAR POWER IS ON SOPS?
The SOPS prototype is powered by 12, 375-Watt solar panels. These panels generate enough electricity to power the system as well as additional features such as navigation lighting, surveillance/security, power washing, etc.
HOW DEEP DO THE SOPS LADDERS GO?
The depth of SOPS ladders depends on the number of baskets used. This number can be customized based on lease depth and grower preference.
HOW MANY OYSTERS FROM SEED OR FROM SPAT-ON-SHELL CAN BE GROWN ON SOPS?
It is estimated that 150,000 oysters from seed can be grown on the SOPS prototype. We grew 400,000 spat on shells (SOS) in 2022 and 2023, using about a third of SOPS capacity (SOPS capacity: 575 baskets, grew SOS in roughly 192 baskets). SOS grown depends to a large degree on the density of spat that are set on each shell.
WHAT BENEFITS HAVE YOU EXPERIENCED FROM ROTATING THE BASKETS?
Rotating the baskets has enhanced biofoul control, uniform shell shape due to tumbling, reduced mortality due to more regular exposure to sunlight, and uniform exposure to dissolved oxygen, salinity, and water temperatures throughout the water column.
IF AN ORDER IS PLACED TO BUILD A SOPS, HOW LONG WOULD IT TAKE TO BUILD AND DELIVER? DO YOU OFFER ANY SERVICE FOR THE PLATFORM’S OPERATION?
WHAT OYSTER SPECIES IS SOPS GROWING?
SOPS is currently growing the Eastern Oyster Crassostrea virginica. This is the species native to the eastern seaboard.
CAN SOPS BE USED TO GROW OTHER SHELLFISH?
There's potential for other cultured animals to be grown on SOPS such as other species of oyster, clams, mussels, urchins, etc.
DOES SOLAR OYSTERS SELL OYSTERS?
Solar Oysters is not a seller of oysters. Our company is focused on selling innovative technologies such as the Solar Oysters Production System (SOPS) to growers.
HOW IS SOPS PERMITTED/LICENSED? HOW HAS IT BEEN RECEIVED BY
REGULATORY AGENCIES?
When the SOPS prototype operated in Baltimore Harbor, a Tidal Wetlands License from the Maryland Department of Environment was obtained. Generally, the guidance from regulatory agencies in Maryland is that a Tidal Wetlands License is necessary if SOPS is used for restoration; if used for raising oysters for market consumption in Maryland, a lease from the Department of Natural Resources is needed in lieu of a Tidal Wetlands License. Permitting/licensing requirements vary by state. The use of the SOPS prototype deployment on Fishing Bay is allowed under a Hoopers Island Oyster Company lease.
CAN YOU GROW OYSTERS FROM SEED FOR CONSUMPTION/MARKET AND SPAT-ON-SHELL ON THE SAME SOPS?
Yes, it is possible to culture spat-on-shell and single seed concurrently, or even multiple species, on SOPS with necessary operating protocols in place. Please check with your regulatory agencies to see what might be required from a permitting standpoint.
THE SOPS PROTOTYPE IS AT 20 FEET OF WATER DEPTH. CAN IT BE ADJUSTED TO OPERATE IN SHALLOWER WATER BY HAVING FEWER CAGES IF MY LEASE IS IN SHALLOW WATER?
A SOPS with fewer baskets could be built however fewer baskets means fewer oysters grown. Considerations in siting should be considered to ensure adequate flow for the oysters as deeper water generally provides increased food availability.
CAN A GROWER CHOOSE THE ROTATION FREQUENCY OF THE LADDER SYSTEMS?
Yes, the ladder rotation frequency can be programmed to the needs of the grower. It also has a "manual" feature, where ladders can be rotated on command.
CAN OYSTERS GROWN ON SOPS BE USED TO GENERATE NUTRIENT CREDITS?
Yes. Nutrient credits can be generated as an additional source of revenue. The ability to generate and trade nutrient credits depends on applicable regulatory programs to facilitate trading and the availability of market demand in the area oysters are being grown.
IS SOLAR OYSTERS AVAILABLE TO ASSIST IN SOPS OPERATIONS & MAINTENANCE?
Solar Oysters can provide this type of assistance. In the initial set-up we can assist in making SOPS operational. Long-term assistance would be available under a service contract.
IF AN ORDER IS PLACED TO BUILD A SOPS, HOW LONG WOULD IT TAKE TO BUILD AND DELIVER? DO YOU OFFER ANY SERVICE FOR THE PLATFORM’S OPERATION?
Initially we anticipate SOPS can be built and delivered within 4-6 months of an order being placed. We can assist in initial startup and operation or for long term support enter into a service contract.
