Chiba Choshi Offshore Wind Power Project is set to play a crucial role in Japan’s renewable energy expansion. As part of the country’s efforts to transition toward clean energy, this project will significantly contribute to reducing carbon emissions and enhancing energy security. With a planned capacity of 403 MW, the Choshi project will reinforce Japan’s commitment to offshore wind development.
➡ For an overview of all ten Promotion Areas as of 2025, see:
Promotion Areas for Offshore Wind in Japan – 2025 Overview
1. Project Overview
| Project name | Chiba Choshi Offshore Wind |
| Developer | Chiba Choshi Offshore Wind LLC |
| Partners | Mitsubishi Corporation Offshore Wind Ltd. C-TECH CORPORATION Mitsubishi Corporation |
| Location | Offshore CHoshi City, Chiba Prefecture |
| Type | Fixed-bottom Offshore Wind Power |
| WTG | GE |
| Price | 16.49 JPY/kWh |
| Capacity | 403 MW (13 MW × 31 turbines) |
| Start of Construction | 2025 |
| Operation Period | September 2028 – January 2052 |
2. Location
2-1. Sea & Geographical Features
The Pacific coast is an area where the Kuroshio Current (warm current) and the Oyashio Current (cold current) meet, and the wind conditions are good. The ocean floor is shallow, making it possible to set up the device at a relatively shallow depth (up to about 20m).
2-2. Port Infrastructure & Grid Connection
The construction will utilize Kashima Port in Ibaraki Prefecture, and the operation and maintenance base will be Naarai Port in Choshi City. It is planned to connect to Tokyo Electric Power Company PG’s Shin-Sawara substation to transmit electricity to the Tokyo metropolitan area.
3. Overview of Wind Turbine Facilities
4. Project Timeline & Development Phases
- 2021 December: Project selected for development
- 2022-2024: Environmental impact assessments, seabed surveys, and project planning
- 2025 January: Onshore construction begins
- 2027 February: Offshore construction starts
- 2028 September: Expected commercial operation date
- 2052 January: Planned decommissioning and site restoration
The construction phase will take approximately three to four years, ensuring a well-structured and sustainable development process aligned with Japan’s energy transition goals.
5. CAPEX & OPEX Estimates (Based on NEDO Model)
The capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operational expenditure (OPEX) estimates follow the latest NEDO offshore wind cost model.
The estimated capital expenditure (CAPEX) for the Chiba Choshi Offshore Wind is approx. ¥166 billion ($1.1 billion USD), with long-term operational costs (OPEX) projected at approx. ¥3.0 billion annually.
📌 CAPEX & OPEX Breakdown for 403 MW:
| Investment Factor | Estimated Cost (Billion JPY) |
|---|---|
| Turbine Procurement | 91 |
| Foundation & Installation | 63 |
| Substations & Grid Connection | 12 |
| Operations & Maintenance (OPEX/year) | 3 |
6. Economic and Environmental Impact
6-1. Local Economic Growth
The Choshi Offshore Wind Power Project is designed to create local employment opportunities and strengthen the regional supply chain. Key initiatives include:
- Supply Chain Development: Encouraging partnerships with Japanese manufacturers and service providers
- Job Creation & Workforce Training: Establishing training programs in collaboration with local institutions
- Support for Local Businesses: Boosting economic activity through infrastructure development
6-2. Environmental Considerations
The project incorporates stringent environmental impact assessments (EIAs) to mitigate potential ecological impacts. Strategies include:
- Seabed Protection: Using advanced monopile foundation techniques to minimize disruptions
- Fisheries Collaboration: Engaging with local fishing communities to ensure sustainable coexistence
- Wildlife Monitoring: Implementing tracking programs for birds and marine life to preserve biodiversity
6-3. Technological Advancements
By leveraging global offshore wind expertise, the Choshi project integrates innovative solutions such as:
- Next-Generation Turbines: High-efficiency General Electric Haliade-X turbines
- Smart Grid Integration: Working with Tokyo Electric Power to optimize transmission efficiency
- AI-Based Monitoring: Utilizing digital twin technology for predictive maintenance and real-time performance optimization
7. Community Engagement and Sustainable Development
A core aspect of the Choshi project is its commitment to community integration. The project aims to:
- Support Local Fisheries: Investing in aquaculture research and sustainable fishing practices
- Enhance Educational Programs: Partnering with universities for offshore wind-related studies
- Increase Public Awareness: Hosting workshops and informational sessions for residents
Conclusion
The Choshi Offshore Wind Power Project is a landmark initiative that strengthens Japan’s position as a leader in offshore wind energy. By focusing on sustainability, economic development, and technological advancement, the project paves the way for a cleaner, greener future.
For investors, policymakers, and industry experts, this initiative marks a significant step forward in Japan’s energy transformation. Stay connected with DeepWind for the latest updates on offshore wind developments in Japan.
To explore how this area compares nationally and understand Japan’s offshore wind roadmap, visit:
Promotion Areas for Offshore Wind in Japan – 2025 Overview —
your guide to Japan’s offshore wind Promotion Areas.
Explore more categories at DeepWind:
- 🔍Market Insights – Understand the latest trends and key topics in Japan’s offshore wind market
- 🏛️Policy & Regulations – Explore Japan’s legal frameworks, auction systems, and designated promotion zones.
- 🌊Projects – Get an overview of offshore wind projects across Japan’s coastal regions.
- 🛠️Technology & Innovation – Discover the latest technologies and innovations shaping Japan’s offshore wind sector.
- 💡Cost Analysis – Dive into Japan-specific LCOE insights and offshore wind cost structures.
