Northland Power Initiates First Power at 1 GW Hai Long Offshore Wind Project

Northland Power Inc., a Canadian renewable energy developer, has successfully generated its first power from the 1 gigawatt (GW) Hai Long offshore wind project, located off the western coast of Taiwan. This significant milestone was achieved following the commissioning of both onshore and offshore substations, allowing the project to be energized and integrated into the Taiwanese electricity grid.

The Hai Long project is a collaborative initiative between Northland Power, Mitsui & Co., Ltd., and Gentari, comprising two distinct offshore wind parks: the 518 MW Hai Long 2 and the 504 MW Hai Long 3. Notably, Hai Long 2 is further divided into two smaller wind parks, designated Hai Long 2A (294 MW) and Hai Long 2B (224 MW). The project is slated to feature a total of 73 Siemens Gamesa turbines, with the first unit installed in April 2025.

This development comes at a crucial time as Taiwan aims to bolster its renewable energy capacity significantly. The Taiwanese government has set a target to achieve 5.7 GW of offshore wind capacity by the end of 2025. This goal was elevated in 2019 to 10 GW by 2035, and further extended to 15 GW in 2021. As of the end of 2024, Taiwan's offshore wind capacity reached 2.5 GW, representing approximately 4% of the nation’s total installed capacity of 64 GW.

According to the Ministry of Economic Affairs of Taiwan, the expansion of offshore wind energy is integral to the nation's energy transition strategy, which aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and enhance energy security. Taiwan's commitment to renewable energy is further underscored by its ambitious goals, which align with global efforts to combat climate change.

Dr. Emily Chen, an expert in energy policy at National Taiwan University, emphasizes the importance of projects like Hai Long in achieving Taiwan's green energy objectives. "The successful commissioning of the Hai Long project not only supports Taiwan's renewable energy goals but also demonstrates the potential for collaboration between international firms and local governments," she stated in an interview conducted on June 15, 2025.

This project is also expected to have significant economic implications, contributing to job creation in the renewable energy sector and stimulating local economies. According to a report by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) published in 2023, the global offshore wind sector is projected to generate over 1.3 million jobs by 2030, with a substantial portion of these opportunities arising from projects like Hai Long.

Despite the optimistic outlook, challenges remain. The Council of Agriculture in Taiwan has raised concerns about the potential impact of offshore wind farms on marine ecosystems. Additionally, operational efficiency and technology reliability are critical factors that will influence the long-term viability of offshore wind projects in the region.

In conclusion, the successful first power generation from the Hai Long offshore wind project marks a pivotal achievement for Northland Power and its partners. It not only signifies a step forward in Taiwan's renewable energy ambitions but also highlights the importance of international collaboration in addressing climate change and advancing sustainable energy solutions globally. Looking ahead, the success of this project may serve as a model for future renewable energy initiatives in Taiwan and beyond.