Brazil tests electric motors on fishing vessels to reduce noise and emissions

Brazil is conducting trials of electric motors for winches on fishing vessels to decrease noise and emissions. The initiative is a collaborative project between the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture (MPA) and the Federal University of Juiz de Fora (UFJF).

Testing is currently underway in the southern and southeastern regions of the country, including observations in Torres, Rio Grande do Sul. The project focuses on vessels used for trawl and gillnet fishing, evaluating how the technology adapts to different conditions and the socio-economic impact on fishing communities.

Project coordinator Professor Federico Sucunza noted that involving fishermen in the development process was essential to ensuring the technology works in real-world conditions. One participant, fisherman Benjamin Alves, reported that the electric motor could improve working conditions on board. The project aims to support future energy-transition measures within the fishing sector.