JFE Engineering advances Japan's offshore wind manufacturing

JFE Engineering is advancing Japan's offshore wind energy capabilities through two major developments in manufacturing and structural design.

First, a consortium including JFE Engineering, Shimizu Corporation, TEPCO Renewable Power, Eurus Energy Holdings, and the Nippon Kaiji Kyokai has been selected by NEDO for a research project. The group aims to develop modular floating wind turbine structures using pin-connection and grout-joining technologies. This approach is designed to lower costs and strengthen the domestic supply chain by allowing existing shipyards and steel structure factories to manufacture components. The project, scheduled from July 2026 to March 2028, focuses on semi-submersible structures that are resistant to wind and waves.

Second, JFE Engineering has completed Japan's first domestically produced monopile, a foundation structure for offshore wind turbines, at its Kasaoka Monopile Plant in Okayama Prefecture. This specific monopile, measuring approximately 11 meters in diameter, 80 meters in length, and weighing 2,000 tons, is destined for an offshore wind project off the coasts of Oga, Katagami, and Akita in Akita Prefecture. The production utilizes specialized heavy steel plates from JFE Steel to increase efficiency and reduce welding requirements.