Proteus tidal turbine greenlighted, clearing the way for 2025 installation

UK-based tidal energy company Proteus Marine Renewables (PMR) has secured a design evaluation conformity certificate from ClassNK, Japan’s certification bureau, for its new tidal turbine.

Building on the success of the AR500 project, PMR is advancing the development of its AR1100 turbine, which is set for installation and commissioning by early 2025, with turbine assembly nearing completion. 

According to the UK firm, the certification from ClassNK allows for an upgrade from the AR500 to the more powerful 1.1 MW AR1100, incorporating enhanced pitch and yaw systems designed to increase energy yield.

Once operational, the AR1100 is expected to provide clean energy to the Goto Islands, contributing to Japan’s renewable energy goals. Proteus is working with key partners, Kyuden Mirai Energy, the Ministry of Environment, Toyo Construction, Goto Transportation, and Shibuya Diving, to bring the project to life.  

“Whilst the Design Evaluation Conformity Certificate is just a piece of paper, it attests to the immense drive, determination and talent of the team in completing the AR1100 design and the huge effort required by ClassNK in reviewing the encyclopedic documentation,” said Philip Archer, Head of Product Applications at Proteus Marine Renewables.

“Most importantly, it allows for the submission of the construction permit that is required to break ground and start the expansion works on the existing onshore powerhouse. These works will be completed by the end of 2024 and shall be followed by the installation of the AR1100 turbine. It’s a significant step toward establishing tidal power as an emerging renewable energy resource in Japan. The Proteus team is very excited by what the future holds.”

In August, PMR began assembly works on the AR1100 tidal turbine in Japan. The assembly would be completed this year, followed by reinstallation, and finally the export of clean energy to the Goto Islands.