Japan's Largest Offshore Wind Farm Begins Operation

Japanese utility Jera and Green Power Investment Corporation (GPI) have successfully launched the Ishikari Bay New Port project, marking the country's largest operational offshore wind farm. This significant milestone in Japan's renewable energy sector is a joint effort between Jera, a collaboration between Tokyo Electric Power Corporation and Chubu Electric Power, and GPI.

The Ishikari Bay New Port project boasts a total capacity of 112MW and is equipped with 14 Siemens Gamesa SG 8.0-167 DD turbines. These turbines are specially certified to withstand both typhoons and seismic activities, ensuring reliable and resilient energy production. The location of the wind farm is off the west coast of Hokkaido, the northernmost island in Japan.

All electricity generated by the wind farm will be supplied to the Hokkaido Electric Power Network, contributing to the region's energy needs. Jera's involvement in the project was solidified through a deal with GPI, where Jera, along with NTT Anode Energy, signed an agreement in May to buy into GPI, subsequently acquiring a stake in the Ishikari Bay New Port project.

Japan has set ambitious targets for its offshore wind capacity, aiming to reach 10GW by 2030 and a remarkable 45GW by 2040. Currently, the country has 289MW of operational offshore wind capacity, according to Windpower Intelligence, the research and data division of Windpower Monthly. This newly commissioned wind farm is a significant step toward achieving Japan's renewable energy goals, contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly future.