Proteus Marine Renewables Installs Japan’s First 1.1MW Tidal Turbine
Proteus Marine Renewables has successfully deployed the AR1100 tidal turbine in Japan, becoming the first tidal energy company to operate megawatt-scale devices in two countries. Now safely installed in the Naru Strait, the turbine will generate 1.1 MW of clean energy, accelerating the decarbonisation of the Goto Islands’ electricity supply and advancing Japan’s renewable energy transition.
Building on the success of the AR500 pilot project in 2021, where a 500kW device operated in the Naru Strait maintaining a 97% turbine availability, Proteus signed an equipment supply and works contract with Kyuden Mirai Energy (KME) in November 2022 to upgrade the device to 1.1MW capacity. Leveraging its modular architecture, Proteus enhanced its existing turbine’s performance and efficiency by integrating advanced pitch and yaw systems, along with other improvements to achieve a 1.1MW rating.
Commenting on this achievement, 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.”
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.”
The deployment, carried out by local vessels and resources under the supervision of the Proteus Offshore Services team, was made possible through the collaboration and expertise of key partners and suppliers in Japan. Kyuden Mirai Energy, with support from the Ministry of Environment, is playing a crucial role in advancing Japan’s transition to tidal energy.
