Japan is harnessing the power of the wind energy

Japan’s wind energy sector has seen significant developments in both onshore and offshore domains, with ambitious expansion plans set for the coming decades.

Installed capacity and growth

• Total capacity: As of 2023, Japan’s cumulative wind energy capacity reached 5.2 GW, marking a substantial increase from previous years.
• Offshore wind: By the end of 2023, Japan’s offshore wind capacity stood at 188 MW, comprising 34.2 MW from nearshore projects and 153.5 MW from deeper offshore installations.

Government ambitions

• 2030 target: The Japanese government aims to achieve 10 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2030.
• 2040 target: Long-term plans are even more ambitious, with a goal of installing up to 45 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2040.

Current and upcoming projects

• Akita-Noshiro Wind Farm: This project, located in Akita Prefecture, has a total capacity of 139 MW. The Akita port section began operations in January 2023 with 13 turbines totaling 55 MW, while the Noshiro port section commenced in December 2022 with 20 turbines totaling 84 MW.
• Dohoku Wind Farm Cluster: Scheduled for commissioning in the latter half of 2023, this cluster on Hokkaido island will utilize 79 typhoon-resistant 4.3 MW onshore turbines, collectively generating 340 MW.
• Murakami and Tainai Offshore Wind Project: Planned for operation by 2028 or 2029, this project will feature 38 turbines, each with an 18 MW capacity, totaling 684 MW.

Recent developments

• Third offshore wind auction: In December 2024, Japan selected two consortiums, including one led by BP, to develop offshore wind blocks. This aligns with the nation’s strategy to expand offshore wind capacity to 45 GW by 2040.
• BP and JERA Joint Venture: BP has entered a £4.5 billion joint venture with Japan’s largest power producer, JERA, to develop offshore wind farms. This 50-50 partnership combines both companies’ offshore wind assets, aiming to position them among the top wind developers globally.
• Equinor’s bid: Norwegian energy company Equinor has submitted a bid to develop an offshore wind farm in Japan’s latest state auctions, seeking to build a strong presence in the emerging Japanese market.

These developments underscore Japan’s commitment to expanding its wind energy sector, both onshore and offshore, as part of its broader strategy to enhance renewable energy sources and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

This information is updated in March 2025

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