Alphabet X, also known as the “moonshot factory,” has gained recognition for its diverse technological solutions and the range of issues it aims to address. One of its recent ventures, Tidal, has emerged with ambitious goals of “feeding humanity sustainably” through the lens of salmon aquaculture. This particular sector is crucial, given that salmon aquaculture is noted as the fastest-growing food production system globally, amounting to 70% of the market, as per the World Wildlife Foundation.
Based in Trondheim, Norway, with connections to Mountain View, Tidal employs a distinctive Google-inspired strategy within the aquaculture space. By integrating sensors, robotics, data science, and AI, the company offers farmers a comprehensive view of their harvests. The technology allows for constant monitoring of the fish, provides yield estimates, and identifies potential issues such as sea lice before they escalate. Tidal has already made significant strides in Chile, Brazil, and Norway, collaborating closely with local farmers. Currently, Tidal has deployed 230 systems in Norway alone, empowering fish farmers to make more sustainable decisions in an industry where feed constitutes a major environmental and economic cost.
The Transition to Independence
Tidal’s transition from an Alphabet X project to becoming an independent company signifies a significant milestone in its journey towards commercialization. Astro Teller, X head, emphasized the company’s progress in enabling fish farmers globally to adopt more sustainable practices. The move towards independence was a planned step, as indicated by a representative from Tidal. Alphabet has been restructuring its “other bets,” leading to a more focused approach on projects with the potential for commercialization.
In recent times, Alphabet has streamlined its projects, with some like Mineral and Skip transitioning into licensing projects or independent entities. Tidal’s connection to Alphabet post-spinout differs, with the tech giant maintaining a minority ownership stake in the startup. Tidal has also begun seeking external funding, with support from investors like Perry Creek Capital, Ichthus Venture Capital, and Futurum Ventures. While the exact funding amount remains undisclosed, Tidal has expressed its commitment to growth, with plans to double or triple its system deployments in the coming years.
Looking Ahead: Tidal’s Expansion Plans
As Tidal enters a phase of accelerated growth, its impact on the aquaculture industry is poised to be transformative. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and a sustainability-focused approach, Tidal is set to revolutionize how fish farming is conducted worldwide. The company’s emphasis on empowering farmers with real-time data, predictive analytics, and proactive problem-solving capabilities underscores its commitment to driving positive change in the industry.
The global food production landscape is evolving rapidly, with a growing emphasis on sustainability, efficiency, and environmental conservation. Tidal’s innovative solutions align with these overarching trends, positioning the company as a key player in the quest for more sustainable aquaculture practices. As Tidal continues to expand its footprint and enhance its technological capabilities, the future of salmon aquaculture looks promising under the banner of sustainable innovation.
Tidal’s journey from a moonshot project within Alphabet X to an independent entity marks a significant shift in the aquaculture sector. With a strong focus on sustainability, technological innovation, and industry collaboration, Tidal is well-positioned to lead the charge towards a more sustainable future for salmon aquaculture on a global scale.