2025-04-03T17:21:47.000Z

Japan has marked a significant milestone in its renewable energy journey with the commencement of commercial operations at the nation's largest onshore wind farm, the Abukuma wind farm. On April 3, GE Vernova’s Onshore Wind business announced that this impressive facility has begun producing power. The wind farm is capable of generating 147 megawatts (MW) of electricity, utilizing 46 state-of-the-art 3.2 MW wind turbines, each equipped with a 103-meter rotor diameter.

The Abukuma wind farm is the result of a collaborative effort spearheaded by Fukushima Fukko Furyoku, a joint venture formed by a consortium of nine companies, with Sumitomo Corporation at the helm. This partnership was established with a clear mission: to develop and operate onshore wind power projects in the Abukuma region of Fukushima, particularly as part of the prefecture's reconstruction efforts following the catastrophic tsunami in 2011. The project serves as a compelling example of international cooperation focused on advancing Japan's renewable energy capabilities.

At the forefront of this project is GE Vernova, whose cutting-edge technology combines with the execution expertise of Toshiba Corporation, ensuring that the Abukuma facility not only meets energy production targets but also aligns with environmental standards. This initiative is instrumental in supporting Japan's ambitious goal of increasing the share of renewable energy in its national electricity mix from 40% to 50% by the year 2040. This strategic direction has been articulated in the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry's 7th National Electricity Mix, which highlights Japan's commitment to transitioning to renewable energy as the primary source of power in the country.

Since the beginning of 2024, GE Vernova has made notable strides in Japan's wind energy sector, marking the fifth significant order or milestone announcement during this period. Collectively, GE Vernova’s wind turbines are set to contribute 1.8 gigawatts (GW) of energy to Japan's grid, further solidifying the company’s role as a key player in the nation’s renewable energy landscape.

David Hardy, the chief commercial officer for GE Vernova's Wind segment, expressed enthusiasm about the Abukuma wind farm, stating, "We are pleased to announce the start of operation of this critically important wind farm for Japan along with our consortium members. The Abukuma wind farm is powered by technology developed to minimize environmental impact and cope with extreme weather conditions in Japan, reinforcing our commitment to supporting our customers in meeting Japan's ambitious renewable energy and wind power goals." His remarks highlight the technological advancements that enable the farm to function effectively in the challenging climate of Japan.

Hirano Takayuki, a representative for Fukushima Fukko Furyoku, also spoke about the significance of the project, stating, "We are proud to have accomplished this meaningful project together with GE Vernova in Fukushima. We believe this wind farm will contribute to the region's economic development for years to come, generating local employment opportunities and other positive impacts. From a decarbonization perspective, we also see this project as helping Fukushima Prefecture become a leading region in the adoption of renewable energy on the global stage." His insights reveal the broader economic and environmental implications of the wind farm, emphasizing its potential to foster sustainable development.

As a testament to GE Vernova's global reach and expertise, the Onshore Wind business boasts a total installed base of approximately 57,000 turbines, amounting to over 120 gigawatts (GW) of installed capacity worldwide. This extensive experience positions the company as a leader in the renewable energy sector, capable of delivering innovative solutions that cater to the diverse energy needs of different regions.