Seaweed, a fast-growing and carbon-absorbing marine algae, has long played a role in food, cosmetics, animal feed, fertilisers, and bioplastics. But now, this humble ocean crop is making waves in the clean energy sector—thanks to an innovative startup from Bengaluru.
IIT Madras Alumni Reimagine Seaweed’s Potential
Founded in 2010 by IIT Madras alumni Nelson Vadassery, Shrikumar Suryanarayan, Sri Sailaja Nori, and Sowmya Balendiran, Sea6 Energy set out to develop sustainable solutions using marine biomass. While they initially focused on microalgae, the team soon pivoted to macroalgae—specifically red seaweeds—due to their faster growth, scalability, and economic viability.
To meet the demands of industrial-scale production, Sea6 Energy engineered a mechanised ocean farming system, allowing for large-scale, consistent cultivation of seaweed.
Turning Seaweed into Biofuel: The Science Behind It
Sea6 Energy has pioneered the conversion of seaweed into biocrude through hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL). This innovative process mimics the natural formation of fossil fuels. It subjects wet seaweed biomass to high temperatures and pressure, generating biocrude with energy densities comparable to petroleum-based fuels.
Crucially, the process is carbon-neutral. The carbon dioxide released when the fuel is burned is offset by the CO₂ absorbed during seaweed growth. This makes it a promising alternative in the fight against climate change.
Scaling Innovation Through Strategic Partnerships
Sea6 Energy’s pioneering work has attracted international attention. In 2021, the startup raised $9 million from Dutch investment firm Aqua-Spark, helping accelerate its seaweed-based technology development.
Building on that momentum, in December 2024, Sea6 Energy signed a collaborative agreement with Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL). The partnership aims to co-develop seaweed-based biofuels and green chemicals. The partnership supports the goals of India’s National Biofuel Policy, aimed at reducing dependency on fossil fuels and boosting energy security.
Why Seaweed Is a Truly Sustainable Alternative
Seaweed offers a renewable biomass source that doesn’t compete with food crops or require arable land and freshwater—unlike terrestrial biofuel sources. Moreover, seaweed farming enhances marine biodiversity and improves coastal ecosystem health. It also sequesters carbon, making it a powerful tool for climate change mitigation.
As reported by thebetterindia.com, Sea6 Energy is transforming an underutilised marine resource into clean energy. In doing so, the company is charting a bold course toward a greener, more sustainable future. Their work highlights how innovation, science, and sustainability can come together to create impactful solutions for the global energy crisis
