- Japan approved a draft amendment for offshore wind in the EEZ.
- Japan targets 10 GW by 2030 and 45 GW by 2040.
Japan’s government has approved a draft amendment for offshore wind power in exclusive economic zones (EEZ). This aligns with Japan’s goal of carbon neutrality by 2050.
Japan targets 10 GW of offshore wind power by 2030 and 45 GW by 2040. Floating offshore wind is crucial to replace fossil fuels. New legislation allows wind farms further out to sea.
Ministry of Economy and Transport announces the move. Industry Minister Ken Saito sees it as an accelerator for offshore wind. Global energy companies like RWE AG and Iberdrola welcome the step.
They urge Japan to enhance auctions for EEZ. Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) represent non-territorial mineral exploration and fishing waters. The proposed scheme involves a two-step approval process.
The industry ministry selects installation areas based on various factors: tentative approval is granted initially, and final approval is given after consultations. The government aims to pass amended legislation by June.
Operationalising the first EEZ project could take a decade. Capacity could reach several gigawatts.
The current offshore wind capacity is less than 0.5 GW. Development of floating offshore wind farms underway. EEZ legislation is crucial for the future of offshore wind in Japan. Stakeholders are optimistic about sustainable energy prospects.