Floating Offshore Wind Power Generation: December 2011

Floating Offshore Wind Power Generation: December 2011

Floating offshore wind power generation is positioned as an important pillar of renewable energy in Japan, promoted by the Ministry of the Environment and the Agency for Natural Resources and Energy. This technology involves installing wind power generation equipment on a platform floating in the sea, differing in structure and characteristics from conventional wind power generation facilities with foundations on land or sea beds. The following details the technology, its safety measures, efforts toward ...

Technical Overview

A floating offshore wind power generation facility consists of wind turbines installed on a platform floating in the sea. This allows for flexible site selection, including deep sea areas, enabling power generation in wind-rich and stable sea areas. The floating structure helps reduce installation costs and minimizes environmental impact.

Safety Measures

To ensure the safety of floating offshore wind power generation facilities, the following measures are taken:

1. **Simulation of Weather and Ocean Conditions**:
- Considering weather and ocean conditions around Japan, safety evaluation methods for both individual wind turbines and entire wind farms are devised.

2. **Tank Testing**:
- Tank tests are conducted to evaluate the interaction of external loads and the combined vibration of turbine rotation and floating structures. This ensures the safety of the system in real ocean environments.

3. **Distance Standards Setting**:
- Distance standards between turbines are set to maintain safety even in the event of mooring chain damage, minimizing mutual influence between adjacent turbines.

International Standardization

Japan aims to lead the international standardization of floating offshore wind power generation. Since fiscal year 2011, discussions have begun at the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), with Japan taking the lead in drafting standards. This effort aims to establish international standards for floating offshore wind power generation and promote technology diffusion through international cooperation.

Future Prospects

Floating offshore wind power generation is expected to contribute to the expansion of renewable energy and ensure stable energy supply. Particularly, demonstration research projects off the coast of Fukushima Prefecture are progressing as part of the recovery plan from the Great East Japan Earthquake, aiming to improve regional energy self-sufficiency and economic recovery. Safety guidelines are set to be formulated by fiscal year 2023, with a goal of technology dissemination and practical application.

Floating offshore wind power generation plays a crucial role in renewable energy, thanks to its innovative technology and safety measures. By leading international standardization, Japan is expected to facilitate global diffusion and technological advancement, securing a significant position in future energy policies.