Japan's leading utility, JERA, and Green Power Investment Corporation (GPI) have officially commenced operations at the Ishikari Bay New Port Offshore Wind Farm, now standing as the largest commercial wind farm in the country. Nestled in Hokkaido’s Ishikari Bay New Port, the facility boasts 14 state-of-the-art wind turbines, each manufactured by Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy, with an impressive 8 MW output per turbine, collectively contributing to a total capacity of 112 MW.
Kajima Corporation spearheaded onshore construction, while offshore construction was expertly executed by a joint venture between Shimizu Corporation and Nippon Steel Engineering. The generated electricity will seamlessly flow into the Hokkaido Electric Power Network (HEPN) after passing through a project transformer substation equipped with 180 MWh of battery storage capacity. Subsequently, the power will be distributed through HEPN’s Nishi Sapporo Substation.
JERA expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts of regional communities and government administrations, including Hokkaido Prefecture, Ishikari City, and Otaru City, which played a pivotal role in bringing this ambitious project to fruition. The utility companies have also pledged ongoing commitment to regional development and the stable management of the project in partnership with the local communities.
HEPN has secured a 20-year power purchase agreement with the wind farm, marking a significant commitment to renewable energy and sustainable practices in the region.
Source: oedigital.com