JERA has taken a significant step in its offshore wind ambitions by transferring part of its ownership in the Ishikari Bay New Port offshore wind farm to an investment company established by Hokkaido Electric Power and Tohoku Electric Power. The transfer, completed on 30 September, reshapes the project’s ownership structure, with the 112MW wind farm now jointly operated by JERA, Green Power Investment, Hokkaido Electric, and Tohoku Electric.
The wind farm, situated at Ishikari Bay New Port, is equipped with 14 Siemens Gamesa 8MW turbines and a 180MWh battery system. It has been supplying power to Hokkaido Electric Power Network since 1 January 2024, under a 20-year agreement. JERA has emphasized the project’s stable operation to date, achieved in collaboration with Green Power Investment and local communities of Ishikari City and Otaru City.
The involvement of Hokkaido Electric and Tohoku Electric is expected to bolster the project. “Their participation will strengthen the project through their community relationships and long experience in stable power operations,” JERA stated. This strategic move could set a precedent for future collaborations in Japan’s renewable energy sector, particularly in offshore wind projects.
The project’s success and the new partnership could accelerate Japan’s decarbonisation efforts. By leveraging the strengths of each partner, the Ishikari Bay New Port offshore wind farm could serve as a model for regional development and clean energy transition. As Japan aims to increase its renewable energy capacity, such collaborations may become increasingly common, fostering innovation and driving the sector forward. The commitment of JERA and its partners to support regional development while contributing to national decarbonisation goals underscores the potential of this project to shape the future of Japan’s energy landscape.