The Japanese government announced the selection of five sites off the coast of Hokkaido as “promising zones” for developing offshore wind farms, which is the second phase of a three-stage selection process, as reported by Reuters on May 12. Japan is aiming to accelerate the development of renewable energy to become carbon neutral by 2050. The newly chosen sites are located off Ishikari, Ganu-Minamishiribeshi, Shimamaki, Hiyama, and Matsumae on Hokkaido. These sites were upgraded from “preparatory zones” after the government conducted its own study to determine their grid connection capability and appropriately scaled output. The government will release the results of its annual selection process for wind farm areas in the summer, which will identify promotion zones, promising zones, and preparatory zones.

Japan’s goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2050 has spurred the government to accelerate the development of renewable energy, including offshore wind. Despite the challenges posed by typhoons, earthquakes, and deep waters, offshore wind has the potential to provide a significant source of renewable energy for Japan, which is surrounded by water and has a long coastline. To overcome these challenges, companies are developing new technologies such as floating wind turbines and subsea power cables. In addition to offshore wind, Japan is investing in other forms of renewable energy such as solar, geothermal, and hydrogen, with a target of achieving a renewable energy mix of 36-38% by 2030.

Sources:

https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/japan-selects-5-promising-zones-offshore-wind-farms-2023-05-12/

https://www.japan.go.jp/global_issues/carbon_neutrality/

https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/japan-aims-36-38-energy-come-renewables-by-2030-2021-10-22/