Marine environments are complex, dynamic, and home to a wide variety of life. Any renewable energy system that operates in these waters must not only produce clean electricity but also protect the ecosystems it depends on. At FM Hydro, environmental responsibility is embedded in the design and development of our platform. From the choice of turbine geometry to our ongoing collaboration with scientists and regulators, every decision is guided by the need to ensure compatibility with marine habitats over the long term.
A Design That Protects Marine Life
The Archimedes screw turbine at the heart of our platform rotates slowly, allowing fish and other aquatic species to pass through unharmed. This principle has been proven in other applications, such as fish ladders or hatcheries, where similar designs have been used to guide fish safely past obstacles. By using a form that is already known for its gentle handling of aquatic life, FM Hydro builds confidence that power generation and environmental stewardship can work together.
Surface Mounted for Minimal Seabed Disturbance
Traditional marine energy systems often require heavy equipment on the seabed, which can disturb sensitive habitats and increase installation complexity. FM Hydro’s surface-mounted configuration keeps critical components above the waterline. This approach avoids unnecessary contact with the seabed, reduces the risk of habitat disruption, and allows maintenance to be carried out without deepwater operations.
Working with Experts to Strengthen Safeguards
FM Hydro collaborates with environmental scientists, regulatory agencies, and local stakeholders to ensure our technology aligns with best practices for marine protection. This includes reviewing site-specific conditions, assessing potential impacts, and refining our deployment methods as new data becomes available. By staying engaged with the scientific and regulatory community, we can adapt our approach to maintain high environmental standards throughout the life of each project.
A Long Term Commitment
Ecosystem compatibility is not a single step in the development process. It is an ongoing responsibility. FM Hydro’s design choices, operational planning, and monitoring efforts reflect a commitment to ensuring that marine energy can be a lasting benefit for both people and the environment. By protecting the ecosystems where we operate, we help ensure that clean, predictable power generation remains viable for generations to come.
