Norwegian cod farming company Ode is investing in submersible pens from AKVA group to enhance fish welfare and optimise production. The first four complete Nautilus units will be installed at the Alida site in Volda municipality during the second and third quarters of 2025.

This investment is part of Ode’s broader strategy for innovation and development, aiming to optimise production and product quality through a fully integrated value chain. Cod is a natural deep-water species that thrives below the surface in cold, stable waters. By lowering the pens, Ode can offer improved environmental conditions, better fish welfare, and consistent growth and quality throughout the year.

Experience from both salmon farming and earlier cod trials using submersible pens has shown highly positive results. The technology offers key advantages by allowing better control of light exposure, temperature, and water quality – all critical factors for optimal growth and welfare.

AKVA group_Ola_Kvalheim_OdeOla Kvalheim, CEO at Ode. Photo: Ode

“We combine biological insight with new technology to provide cod with the best possible conditions for growth. Submersible pens are a natural next step to enhance fish welfare, sustainability, and product quality. If we meet our performance targets this year, we will roll out the solution at additional sites suitable for this technology. This could also reshape which sites and areas are considered optimal for cod farming,” says Ola Kvalheim, CEO at Ode.

Strong partnership with AKVA group

The submersible systems are delivered in close collaboration with AKVA group. The pens are customised for deeper operations than standard solutions and will benefit from the favourable currents at the Alida site.

AKVA groupTorunn Jørstad, Sales Manager Nordic at AKVA group. Photo: AKVA group

“This is an exciting step for cod farming, and we’re proud to support Ode with a Nautilus system adapted for deeper waters,” says Torunn Jørstad, Sales Manager Nordic at AKVA group.

She describes the collaboration with Ode as very positive and commends the team’s innovative spirit and expertise. With AKVA group’s experienced project team, she is confident the transition to deep farming will be carried out safely and successfully.

“A gradual approach to increased depth is wise – both for the customer and for us – allowing us to build experience at the right pace,” Jørstad adds.

Today, Ode operates six active sea sites along the Norwegian coast, runs its own processing facility in Vartdal, and has a dedicated sales team delivering fresh, farmed Norwegian cod to customers worldwide – all year round. Through continuous investment in technology and sustainable operations, Ode is positioning itself for further growth and for taking a leading role in the development of cod farming.