GE Renewable Energy confirms Haliade-X partnership with Toshiba

The companies had been rumoured for some months to be in talks about producing equipment for the Haliade-X in Japan.

Based on the longstanding relationship between GE and Toshiba in Japan and beyond, the agreement will help GE’s offshore wind technology to be more competitive in upcoming auctions in Japan.

The companies said they will leverage their collective technology, manufacturing facilities and skills, construction, operation, and maintenance expertise as part of the agreement.

Toshiba will provide local manufacturing capabilities, a skilled workforce, strong energy domain expertise including in wind power, and an indepth knowledge of the Japanese offshore market.

As part of the partnership, GE will provide the Haliade-X technology, parts and components for nacelle assembly, and support Toshiba in jointly developing a local supply chain as well as completing assembly of the nacelles.

Toshiba will assemble, warehouse and transport Haliade-X nacelles, provide preventative maintenance services and have sales and commercial responsibilities for the Japanese market.

GE Renewable Energy president and chief executive offshore wind John Lavelle said, “GE and Toshiba have known each other for decades and have proven their successful collaboration though numerous partnerships.

“Toshiba will help us bring the benefits of offshore wind to Japan. Their local manufacturing capabilities, experience in the energy sector and outstanding reputation in the market make them an invaluable strategic partner. Together, we are well-placed to support Japan’s ambitions to be a leader in renewable energy and offshore wind in particular.”

As part of its green growth strategy for becoming carbon neutral by 2050, the Japanese Government plans to award 10 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2030 with tenders of 1 GW per year. The plan calls for installation of 30 to 45 GW of offshore wind – including floating offshore wind turbines – by 2040 in part through the development of a competitive domestic supply chain.