GE in Japan

GE Energy's 2.5-megawatt wind turbine technology is being introduced into Japan through an agreement that will add 85 megawatts of wind energy capacity to the country's electricity grid.

Currently being developed by Clean Energy Factory, a wind energy producer based in Nemuro, Hokkaido, the three projects covered by the agreement will be located on Awaji Island, Hyogo; in Dangamine, near the border between Asago, Shiso and Hyogo; and in Hohoku, Yamaguchi. The projects are expected to enter commercial operation during 2006 and 2007.

Thirty-eight of GE's 1.5-megawatt units have previously been installed in Japan: 22 for the Rokkasho Wind Project, six for Hokkaido, and 10 for the Hibikinada Wind Project.

"The 2.5-megawatt wind turbine addresses a global trend toward wind turbines with greater power capacities," said Mr. Tamio Kani, general manager of GE Energy's Japan-based wind unit. "This machine, with its larger, 88-metre rotor diameter and flexible modular structure, will be a good match for the project sites. We are pleased to have the opportunity to bring this new technology to Japan, as part of the country's aggressive efforts to produce three gigawatts of new, renewable energy by the year 2010."