The world’s best practices in the development of aquaculture in the framework of the implementation of projects for the multipurpose use of the infrastructure of the fuel and energy complex

Abstract

The article discusses the current international experience of integrating various aquaculture projects into the infrastructure of the fuel and energy complex. Against the background of the active growth in the production of aquaculture products, there is a tendency for the multipurpose use of energy sector facilities (oil platforms, wind farms, etc.) to obtain valuable aquaculture products both during their operation and after the completion of the project period of use. The specifics of the production and assortment of aquaculture facilities and farming methods in different regions of the world have been identified, which determined the features of the integration of aquaculture into fuel and energy facilities. The most common and has been used for many decades in many countries of the world is the cultivation of aquaculture facilities on the recycled water of thermal power plants and reservoirs of hydroelectric power plants. In the European region, there is an active use of offshore platforms for the extraction of hydrocarbons with simultaneous agricultural, aquaculture, scientific activities and the production of electricity through the installation of wind and wave turbines. Oxygen and hydrogen production is organized on some platforms. In North America, projects of hybrid systems “food-energy-water” are being developed using aquavoltaics technology, which allows maintaining the aquatic environment in optimal condition. Fish farming is combined with the cultivation of crustaceans and shellfish, oil platforms are often repurposed into artificial reefs. A patented project of an integrated floating system consisting of four vertical-axial wind turbines connected to a single system with a solar battery and a floating base for the placement of aquaculture facilities is being implemented in Asia. The development of such projects, in addition to the pronounced positive economic effect, also contributes to improving the level of food security of the regions. The use of engineering structures and other infrastructure facilities as new locations and substrates for the cultivation and free habitat of various hydrobionts can significantly reduce the negative impact of the fuel and energy industry on the environment.