Albatross Technology, Electric Power Development (J-POWER), Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings (TEPCO HD), Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha (Kawasaki Kisen), and Sumitomo Heavy Industries Marine & Engineering (SHI-ME) have been chosen to participate in the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization's (NEDO) "Next Generation Technology Development for Floating Offshore Wind Power Generation Project." Their proposal, focusing on the feasibility of large-scale floating vertical axis wind turbines, was selected for implementation.
This project aims to assess the viability of large-scale floating vertical axis wind turbines. According to the partners, these turbines feature a design where the wind turbine and its floating base rotate together, offering potential efficiencies comparable to traditional horizontal axis turbines while reducing the size and cost of the floating base. The project will also involve the design process necessary to obtain basic design approval.
Albatross is responsible for designing the overall system for the floating vertical axis wind turbine. They will also examine carbon fibre reinforced composites for turbine materials and consider lifecycle costs.
J-POWER will focus on examining the certification process for the large floating structures associated with the vertical axis wind turbine. Additionally, they will analyse and investigate the supply chain.
TEPCO HD will establish numerical analysis methods specifically for large-scale turbines.
Kawasaki Kisen is tasked with researching ways to reduce installation and maintenance costs, as well as examining lifecycle costs.
SHI-ME will conduct research on both design and production technologies for large-scale turbines.
