- Proteus Marine Renewables installed a 1.1MW tidal turbine in Japan’s Naru Strait, advancing the Goto Islands’ clean energy supply.
- Tidal energy shows strong potential as Japan seeks to diversify its renewable energy mix and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
- Collaboration with Kyuden Mirai Energy and local partners supports Japan’s transition to tidal power, with further testing and grid connection planned.
Proteus Marine Renewables installed a 1.1MW tidal turbine in Japan’s Naru Strait, marking a key step in decarbonising the Goto Islands and accelerating Japan’s renewable energy goals.
The AR1100 builds on the success of the AR500 pilot project from 2021, where a 500kW turbine maintained 97% availability. In November 2022, Proteus signed a deal with Kyuden Mirai Energy to upgrade the turbine’s capacity to 1.1MW.
Managing Director of Proteus Operations Japan, Philip Archer, highlighted the team’s expertise and local partnerships. “This deployment reflects our team’s dedication and the strength of our collaboration with local professionals. Tidal energy proves itself as a reliable renewable source for Japan.”
Next, the team will commission the turbine, Japan’s first MW-scale grid-connected tidal system, followed by testing and accreditation.
Proteus CEO Drew Blaxland called the AR1100 deployment a significant milestone for the company and the marine energy industry. “With operational turbines in the UK and Japan, we demonstrate the scalability of tidal energy for coastal communities.”
Blaxland emphasised the importance of reliable renewable energy in Japan’s energy transition. “As Japan moves away from fossil fuels, tidal energy will play a critical role in ensuring a stable, sustainable future.”
Local vessels and workers handled the deployment under the supervision of Proteus Offshore Services. Key Japanese partners and suppliers were critical to the project’s success.
Kyuden Mirai Energy, with support from Japan’s Ministry of Environment, continues driving the country’s transition to tidal energy. Their involvement reflects Japan’s increasing commitment to renewable energy growth.
Proteus expects the AR1100’s success to strengthen confidence in tidal energy as a viable source of clean power. The company remains a leader in providing proven solutions to new markets, helping countries like Japan achieve their clean energy targets.
The team will soon begin testing and connecting the AR1100 to the grid, contributing to Japan’s broader decarbonisation and sustainability efforts.
Proteus Marine Renewables continues expanding its influence in the renewable energy sector. The company leads global efforts toward clean energy, offering advanced solutions to meet the growing demand for sustainable power.
As tidal energy gains momentum, Proteus stands poised to play a key role in shaping the future of renewable energy. Japan’s AR1100 project represents a significant leap forward for the industry and the country’s pursuit of a cleaner, sustainable energy system.