The deal also includes a ten-year full-service contract with an extension as an option. Tohoku Electric Power Co., Inc. is supporting the project as a strategic partner in GPI’s projects in Tohoku region.
The Fukaura Wind Farm will operate the onshore wind turbines at 4.2 MW with a rotor diameter of 117 metres and a hub height of 110 metres. The installation of the wind turbines at the project site will commence in Q2 2023 and the turbines are targeted to be fully commissioned and operational in 2024. Given the complex site location near Japan’s north western sea border, GE 4.2-117 onshore wind turbines are optimized to minimise environmental impact and cope with extreme weather conditions and Japan’s unique wind environment.
“We have already had the opportunity to work together with GPI in Japan, so this project is a tremendous next chapter in our growing relationship” said Gilan Sabatier, GE’s Chief Commercial Officer of Onshore Wind International. “Working with GPI, we believe that this project will strengthen Japan’s ambitious carbon neutral commitments and provide Japanese consumers with affordable, reliable, and clean energy for the future.”
Mitsuru Sakaki, President of GPI, added that construction work on the project was made possible due to continued support and teamwork of various stakeholders and local government including a significant effort by GE.
“We thank GE for its commitment to our goal of a wind power project that will harness the region's resource, the wind, and build the region's future” said Mr Sakaki. “We look forward to working with GE to establish a long-term collaboration to further increase the level of efficiency and optimisation to move Japan closer to its sustainable energy goals.”
According to the International Energy Agency, Japan’s onshore wind capacity stands at 5.3 GW, but the growth opportunities are clear. Under the Japanese government’s net-zero by 2050 roadmap, the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI) estimates a 15-16 GW growth potential for onshore wind by 2030.
For additional information:
