This document summarizes the results of a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)-sponsored
project conducted to understand, evaluate, and address the challenges related to kelp
processing and alternative off-season use of the seafood industry capacity in Alaska, and
address the potential use of marine renewable energy (MRE) systems to provide the necessary
power for potential unit operations associated with kelp processing.
The report describes potential energy conversion processes for kelp and fish waste followed by
a techno-economic and life cycle analyses for these processes. An initial aquatic ecological
assessment for Southwest Alaska that outlines location-specific aquatic ecologic assessments
that will be required to address the influence of kelp farming on the marine ecosystem. A kelp
compositional analysis was conducted on samples of several commercial food-grade kelp as
well as local samples of Alaskan kelp. A world survey of kelp cultivation was included to provide
information regarding the kelp industry around the world. Finally, an initial assessment of the
co-development of marine renewable energy and kelp processing capabilities in Southwest
Alaska.
