Taipei, Taiwan – 26 June 2024 – The Rui-Li Phase 1 (“Rui-Li 1”) Floating Offshore Wind Project (pronounced Rway-Lee) is excited to announce that GF Corporation (“GF Corp”), a renowned Japanese company, has become one of the key strategic partners in this transformative initiative. This partnership marks a significant step forward in our efforts to promote renewable energy in Taiwan. Rui-Li 1 will participate in the upcoming floating offshore wind tender, expected to be officially launched by the Taiwanese government. The tender aims to select projects which will serve as a demonstrations for floating offshore wind in the Taiwan Strait (the “Floating Demonstration”), thereby paving the way for the next wave of commercial scale offshore wind tenders, which are expected to all be floating.
Strategic Partnerships and Development Context
The collaboration with GF Corp demonstrates the commitment and potential of the Rui-Li 1 project. The project team is dedicated to complying with governmental renewable energy objectives and boosting public trust in sustainable initiatives. Teaming up with GF Corp enhances the project’s ability to contribute to Taiwan’s green energy ambitions. Ongoing discussions with local and international stakeholders reflect the confidence in the Rui-Li 1 project and the expected Floating Demonstration in Taiwan. Stakeholders are drawn by the region’s long-term prospects and the effective support provided by Taiwan’s government for (floating) offshore wind projects.
Notably, the Netherlands has been a significant foreign investor in Taiwan for many years. Dutch companies like ASML, Atradius, and NXP Semiconductors have been deeply involved in Taiwan’s technology industry, making significant contributions to economic development in Taiwan. The Netherlands is currently the second-largest foreign investor in Taiwan, reflecting a deep and enduring economic relationship between the two countries.
About GF Corp
GF Corp, headquartered in Anan, Tokushima, Japan, is a leader in renewable energy with extensive experience in solar and wind power systems. Founded by the merger of Gaia Power and Fujisaki Electric, which was established in 1973, GF Corp is dedicated to addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainability. The company has a strong commitment to the vision of Sustainable Development and Happiness (SDH), aiming to create self-sufficient, prosperous communities through local energy production and consumption. By 2033, GF Corp plans to achieve a combined 1 GW of solar and wind power installations and to foster community revitalization through innovative energy solutions. This vision aligns seamlessly with the goals of the Rui-Li 1 project, providing a robust foundation for collaboration and success.
The company’s participation strengthens the project’s profile and highlights our shared commitment to sustainable energy solutions. Furthermore, GF Corp is planning floating offshore projects in Japan, and the advanced status and opportunity that Rui-Li 1 offers will allow the company to gain valuable experience that can soon be implemented in the Japanese market.
About IX Renewables
IX Renewables, headquartered in the Netherlands with offices in Taiwan and Japan, is a leader in the renewable energy sector, dedicated to advancing sustainable energy solutions globally. As the coordinator of the Rui-Li 1 project, IX Renewables oversees the development of Taiwan’s first floating offshore wind project. The company combines technical expertise with a commitment to innovation, environmental stewardship, and community engagement, ensuring projects meet regulatory standards while positively impacting local economies and ecosystems. IX Renewables values respect, trust, and adaptability, working closely with local partners, stakeholders, and governments to drive the global transition to clean energy. Eric Kamphues, CEO of IX Renewables, has a deep personal connection to Taiwan. Married to a Taiwanese woman and father to two Taiwanese-Dutch children, Eric is inspired to realize this project for the future of Taiwan and the world. His commitment to this project reflects his dedication to creating a sustainable future for his family and the broader community.
Project Details and Timeline
The planned Rui-Li 1 project, located off the coast of Hsinchu County, is to feature 12 floating 15 MW offshore wind turbines. The tender for demonstration projects is foreseen for the end 2024/beginning 2025, with requirements regarding the bid expected to be published by the Taiwanese government soon. The project team eagerly awaits the announcement of the floating-offshore-wind-specific Feed-In Tariff (FIT) regulations, expected shortly. The winning wind farm is expected to be constructed around 2027/2029 and connected to the grid before the end of 2030. Additionally, Rui-Li 1 will be presented with a distinct role and make an appearance at the most renowned energy exhibition in Taiwan, the Energy Taiwan Forum, in October 2024.
Commitment to Local Stakeholders and Sustainability
The Rui-Li 1 project is committed to delivering benefits to local stakeholders, encompassing the fishery sector, local specialists, and local companies. We intend to involve local stakeholders as prospective partners at every stage of our project, from planning to construction, and through to operation and maintenance. Our objective is to foster a harmonious coexistence and mutual growth with the local community. In the early phases, our project will actively participate in local events and contribute to marine ecology, ocean cleaning initiatives, and maritime self-management activities, upholding our corporate social responsibility. Furthermore, we plan to encourage knowledge transfer to the local supply chain, thereby establishing a foundation for potential global wind power cooperation, in alignment with Taiwan’s industrial policy.
Environmental sustainability is at the core of the project. We agree to the implementation of the new EIA review system, which allows for substantial and proper review of our mitigation measures. Floating wind technology inherently provides a desirable habitat for marine life, promoting biodiversity. Our aspirations exceed regulatory requirements, focusing on developing innovative methods to mitigate environmental impacts, especially in highly sensitive areas.
Quotes
Frans Lambregts, Project Director of Rui-Li 1:
“We are thrilled to welcome GF Corp as a key partner in the Rui-Li 1 project. This collaboration underscores the immense potential of floating offshore wind in Taiwan and marks a significant milestone in our journey towards a sustainable energy future.”
Koji Fujisaki, CEO of GF Corp:
“GF Corp is proud to invest in the Rui-Li 1 project. Our commitment to this project aligns with our vision of promoting renewable energy globally while acting locally. We believe that our expertise and resources will significantly contribute to the success of Taiwan’s first floating offshore wind project. The Rui-Li 1 project not only provides us with invaluable insights for our future projects in Japan but also underscores our commitment to benefiting local communities and fostering sustainable development.”
Eric Kamphues, Chairman of Rui-Li 1 and CEO of IX Renewables:
“The Rui-Li 1 project is a landmark initiative for Taiwan’s energy future and a deeply personal mission for me. With the invaluable support from GF Corp and our committed team, we are set to make a substantial positive impact on Taiwan’s renewable energy landscape. This project highlights our core values of respect, trust, and collaboration, aiming to provide lasting benefits for the local communities and the environment.”
Looking Ahead
The Rui-Li 1 project will be one of the first floating wind projects in Taiwan. With GF Corp as a strategic partner, the Rui-Li 1 project team is more confident than ever in the successful execution and positive impact of the project. Our ongoing collaboration with GF Corp, combined with strong local partnerships and robust government support, positions us to achieve our shared vision of advancing renewable energy in Taiwan and subsequently expanding to Japan.
More information
Link to the press release as published by IX Renewables
For more information on the Rui-Li 1 project, email to RL1inquiry@ixrenewables.com