Japan has taken a significant step towards bolstering its renewable energy sector with the approval of a draft amendment to legislation allowing for the development of offshore wind projects within its exclusive economic zones (EEZs). This move comes as SSE Pacifico, the Japanese subsidiary of UK-based developer SSE Renewables, announces ambitious plans for a 6GW offshore wind pipeline in the country.
Despite being heavily reliant on fossil fuels, Japan has set ambitious targets for offshore wind development, aiming for 10GW of capacity by 2030 and up to 45GW by 2040. Currently, the nation has around 425MW of installed offshore wind capacity. The new legislation would extend permissible offshore wind farm installations beyond territorial waters, encompassing areas such as the North Pacific Ocean, East China Sea, and the Sea of Japan.
The proposed scheme involves a two-step approval process, with Japan's trade and industry ministry selecting installation areas and granting "tentative approval" to applicants. The second stage would entail official approval following consultations with various stakeholders, including maritime industries. Economy, trade, and industry minister Ken Saito emphasized that this bill aims to foster stable and large-scale offshore wind projects.
SSE Pacifico's 6GW pipeline represents a significant contribution to Japan's offshore wind ambitions. Dai Karasawa, president of SSE Pacifico, highlighted the company's target to deliver projects within this pipeline. The spokesperson for SSE Pacifico expressed optimism about the expansion of offshore wind development into Japan's EEZ, particularly praising the adoption of a two-stage approval process similar to that of the UK. Karasawa revealed that approximately half of the proposed 6GW pipeline would utilize fixed-bottom foundations, with the remainder consisting of floating offshore projects, ideal for Japan's deep coastal waters.
With Japan's recent launch of its third offshore wind tender, offering just over 1GW of capacity, and interest from global developers like RWE, the nation is poised for significant growth in its offshore wind sector, marking a crucial stride towards a more sustainable energy future.
Source: windpowermonthly.com