Mermaid Energy converts the abundant sargassum seaweed that washes up on Caribbean shores into clean, usable fuel through a proprietary conversion process. By pairing scientific engineering with ecological insight, the company turns a costly environmental nuisance into a renewable energy source, helping to reduce shoreline cleanup costs while supplying low‑carbon fuel for local markets. Their approach aims to position the Caribbean as a leader in regenerative energy solutions.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Massive influxes of sargassum seaweed wash ashore across the Caribbean, creating environmental hazards, public‑health risks, tourism losses, and greenhouse‑gas emissions as the biomass decomposes.
Solution
Mermaid Energy captures floating sargassum before it reaches the coastline using satellite‑guided forecasting, targeted near‑shore harvesting, and ship‑board biorefinery processing. The harvested biomass is converted on the vessel into renewable biocrude fuel, which is delivered locally for maritime and power generation. By processing the seaweed at sea, the company avoids land‑based infrastructure, reduces emissions, and turns a costly waste stream into a low‑carbon energy source that supports regional energy independence.
Target Audience
Primary customers are Caribbean coastal municipalities, tourism operators, and maritime or power companies seeking locally sourced, low‑carbon fuel.
Features
- Real‑time satellite and ocean model forecasting to predict sargassum bloom trajectories
- Smart, targeted harvesting with booms, skimmers, and small vessels to intercept seaweed offshore
- Ship‑board biorefinery that converts captured sargassum into renewable biocrude fuel on site
- Mobile processing eliminates the need for permanent shore‑based plants and minimizes land disturbance
- Low‑emission fuel suitable for maritime propulsion and stationary power applications
- Closed‑loop system that reduces coastal pollution, public‑health hazards, and tourism losses