Japan deployed its first-ever megawatt-scale tidal energy system. The AR1100 tidal turbine, developed by Proteus Marine Renewables, has been installed in the Naru Strait between the Goto Islands in Nagasaki Prefecture. This project is set to generate 1.1 MW of clean electricity, contributing to Japan’s shift away from fossil fuels.
The AR1100 tidal turbine has a power capacity of 1.1 megawatts (MW), making it the largest tidal energy project in Japan to date. Installed in the waters near the Goto Islands, the turbine will generate clean electricity to help reduce carbon emissions and decrease reliance on fossil fuels. This deployment is expected to make a significant impact on the region’s power supply, ensuring a more sustainable future.
The AR1100 project builds upon the success of Proteus’s earlier AR500 pilot turbine, which was installed in 2021 in the same location. That smaller 500-kilowatt (kW) device operated with an impressive 97% availability, proving the reliability and efficiency of tidal energy in Japanese waters. Encouraged by these results, Proteus signed a contract with Kyuden Mirai Energy (KME) in November 2022 to develop an upgraded version with a 1.1 MW capacity.
The AR1100 turbine uses a horizontal-axis rotor with three high-tech composite blades designed to capture the maximum amount of energy from tidal currents. The turbine’s blade angles are independently controlled using an electromechanical pitch system, allowing for real-time adjustments that optimize power generation and minimize mechanical stress.
The turbine features a drivetrain that transfers mechanical power from the rotor to a permanent magnet generator, efficiently converting ocean energy into electricity. It also includes an electrically actuated yaw mechanism that ensures the turbine always faces the strongest tidal flow. Since tides change direction multiple times a day, this mechanism plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal energy production.
The entire system is mounted on a gravity-based structure anchored to the seabed. A subsea cable connects the turbine to an onshore substation, where the generated electricity is converted and fed into Japan’s power grid. This infrastructure makes tidal energy a stable and predictable source of renewable electricity for the country.
The deployment of the AR1100 turbine was carried out with the help of local vessels and resources under the supervision of Proteus Offshore Services. The company worked closely with Japanese suppliers and experts to ensure the project’s success. This collaborative approach shows Japan’s commitment to integrating innovative renewable energy technologies into its power sector.
Philip Archer, Managing Director of Proteus Operations Japan, said:️ “Deploying the AR1100 in Japan is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our team working in collaboration with local professionals.
The result reinforces tidal energy’s potential as a dependable renewable source in Japan. Our next immediate focus is the commissioning of the turbine, Japan’s first ever MW-scale grid-connected tidal system, and the subsequent testing and accreditation phase.”
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Drew Blaxland, CEO of Proteus, added: “The AR1100 deployment marks a major milestone for Proteus and the marine energy industry. With operational turbines in both the United Kingdom and Japan, we are proving the scalability of tidal energy as a viable power source for coastal communities.
As Japan expands its renewable energy mix and reduces reliance on fossil fuels, predictable sources like tidal energy will be essential in securing a stable, sustainable energy future. Proteus remains at the forefront of this transition, bringing proven solutions to new markets.”
Proteus Marine Renewables was established in 2022 after a management buyout of Simec Atlantis Energy’s tidal energy division. The company specializes in marine energy technology and offshore services, with successful projects deployed in multiple countries. With operational turbines in both Japan and the United Kingdom, Proteus has proven the scalability of tidal energy as a viable power source for coastal communities.
Japan’s government has been actively seeking alternative energy sources to reduce its dependence on imported fossil fuels. The successful deployment of the AR1100 tidal turbine is an important step toward achieving this goal. With an abundance of coastal and island regions, Japan has the potential to become a global leader in tidal energy.
This technology seems be effective if the Japan Govnmt upgraded to this newer model AR1100. What was the savings they got from this transition away from gas and oil? And what are the monthly costs to run such a large turbine? If possible, Is this technology ready to be duplicated in other regions of the World?