A consortium led by Marubeni Offshore Wind Development (MOWD) and including SSE Pacifico has secured funding for a groundbreaking 30 MW floating offshore wind demonstration project in Japan.
This victory follows a competitive bidding process under the Green Innovation Fund (GIF), established by the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI).
Pioneering Deep-Sea Floating Wind Development
The demonstration project, located off the southern coast of Akita Prefecture in northern Japan, is set to be developed in water depths reaching up to 400 meters.
This depth makes it one of the world’s deepest offshore wind projects, showcasing the potential of floating wind technology in challenging environments.
The consortium plans to deploy two 15 MW demonstrator turbines on semi-submersible floating foundations.
Paving the Way for Future Growth
The consortium will now focus on advancing the project, contingent on achieving crucial milestones.
If construction proceeds as planned, the project will play a pivotal role in unlocking future growth in both Japanese and international floating offshore wind development in deep-sea areas.
Enhancing SSE Pacifico’s Expertise in Floating Wind
This successful bid solidifies SSE Pacifico’s position as a leader in floating wind technology. It also strengthens their collaboration with Marubeni, building on their existing partnership in the Ossian floating wind project in the UK.
Dai Karasawa, President of SSE Pacifico, expressed his excitement about the project’s potential to enhance real-world knowledge of deep-sea floating wind deployment, both in Japan and globally.
Japan’s Green Innovation Fund: Driving a Sustainable Future
Japan’s Green Innovation Fund (GIF) is a key component of the country’s ambitious goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
The fund provides critical financial support for businesses and projects that focus on innovative technologies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It targets various sectors, including renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable industrial processes, and fosters research, development, demonstration projects, and the commercialization of new technologies.