Energy storage requirements for wind power projects in Japan

How to develop offshore wind in Japan?

Realizing the full potential of offshore wind in Japan will require a comprehensive policy design, stakeholder engagement, infrastructure, nurturing of the floating offshore wind supply chain and industry. As stipulated in the Marine Renewable Energy Law for projects in territorial waters, regional council meeting is to be convened.

Why is offshore wind power generation attracting attention in Japan?

The biggest problem, among others, is the limited amount of land available to accommodate wind farms in Japan due to the country’s mountainous terrain. To address this challenge, offshore wind power generation is attracting attention. Offshore wind power generation has the following characteristics:

Can a foreign entity participate in offshore wind projects in Japan?

A foreign entity cannot be an applicant for an auction process for offshore wind projects under the Marine Renewable Energy Act. Therefore, foreign investors must set up a subsidiary in Japan or otherwise invest in a Japanese entity (including a special purpose company for the project) in order to participate in offshore wind projects in Japan.

What is Japan's new offshore wind law?

This column addresses Japan’s recent legal reform enabling offshore wind development in its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Passed on 3 June 2025, the new law expands permissible areas beyond territorial waters, unlocking significant potential for floating offshore wind.