by Aman Tripathi: Proteus is the first company to operate megawatt-scale tidal turbines in two countries: Japan and the UK.
Japan’s renewable energy ambitions have received a major push as Proteus Marine Renewables has successfully deployed its powerful AR1100 tidal turbine in the Naru Strait, located between the Goto Islands in Nagasaki Prefecture.
This installation marks a significant milestone as it becomes the nation’s first megawatt-scale grid-connected tidal energy system.
With a capacity to generate 1.1 MW of clean electricity, the AR1100 could play a crucial role in decarbonizing the Goto Islands’ power supply.
“Our next immediate focus is the commissioning of the turbine, Japan’s first ever MW-scale grid connected tidal system, and the subsequent testing and accreditation phase,” said Philip Archer, Managing Director of Proteus Operations Japan.
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Proteus leads in global tidal energy
With the deployment of the AR1100 in Japan, Proteus Marine Renewables has solidified its position as a global leader in tidal energy technology. The company is now the first to operate megawatt-scale tidal turbines in two countries, having previously installed a similar system in the UK.
AR1100 project builds on prior success
The AR1100 installation builds upon the success of Proteus’s 2021 pilot project in the Naru Strait, which featured a 500kW tidal turbine. The pilot project demonstrated the technology’s viability and reliability, achieving an impressive 97 percent turbine availability. Based on this success, Proteus partnered with Kyuden Mirai Energy (KME) to upgrade the device to its current 1.1 MW capacity.
Modular design enhances turbine efficiency
Proteus utilized the modular architecture of its tidal turbine technology to seamlessly upgrade the device from 500kW to 1.1 MW. By integrating advanced pitch and yaw systems, along with other optimizations, the company significantly enhanced the turbine’s performance and efficiency. This resulted in increased power generation capacity.-
Advanced tidal turbine technology
The AR1100 tidal turbine uses a three-bladed rotor to capture energy from tidal currents. Each blade’s angle can be adjusted in real-time to optimize power generation and reduce stress on the turbine. A drivetrain transfers the captured energy to a generator for electricity production. The turbine also includes a yaw mechanism, which allows it to rotate and maintain alignment with the changing tidal flow. -
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Tidal energy integrated into power grid
The turbine sits on a gravity-based structure designed to withstand marine conditions. A subsea cable transmits the generated electricity to an onshore substation, where it is connected to the local power grid. This infrastructure enables the seamless integration of tidal energy into the existing electricity distribution network. -
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Leading in marine energy
Proteus Marine Renewables was established in 2022 through a management buyout of Simec Atlantis Energy’s tidal energy division. It specializes in marine energy technology and offshore services. Notably, the company has deployed tidal turbines in six countries, generating over 20 GWh of electricity.
Expands global tidal energy reach
Proteus’s expertise extends beyond Japan and the UK. The company is actively collaborating with clients in Scotland, France, and the US to deploy its AR Series turbine generation systems. It supports their renewable energy goals and contributes to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
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