Japan's first barge-type floating wind turbine, the Hibiki project, has officially entered commercial operation. The 3 MW, two-bladed turbine, located 15 kilometers off the coast of Kitakyushu, is part of a pioneering initiative to harness floating wind energy in Japan. Installed on Ideol's Damping Pool floating foundation, the turbine represents a significant advancement in renewable energy technology for the country.

Originally commissioned in May 2019, the Hibiki project was initially part of a demonstration study conducted by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO). Following the completion of the demonstration in March 2024, Glocal took over the project and established Hibiki Floating Wind Power (HFWP) to manage and operate the wind farm.

The electricity generated by the 3 MW wind turbine will be supplied to Kyushu Electric Power Company, while Glocal will handle operations and maintenance (O&M). Asset management will be overseen by SMFL Mirai Partners. The project is supported by various investors, including Renewable Japan, KEMCO, Gojin Group, and Chugoku Electric Power.

The Hibiki project is Japan's first steel barge-type floating wind turbine and is the second floating wind turbine to be commercialized in the country, marking a milestone in Japan's renewable energy development.

Source: offshorewind.biz