This week highlights challenges and opportunities for Japan’s offshore wind—from cost pressures to global competition and new environmental insights.
News Highlights
1. Kajima exits consortium, cost escalation clouds Mitsubishi-led projects
Kajima Corporation has withdrawn from the Mitsubishi-led consortium developing projects off Chiba and other sites. Rising construction costs triggered disagreements over cost-sharing, prompting potential delays in construction. The withdrawal raises uncertainties for project timelines.
🔗 Read article (Nikkei – Japanese)
2. Ocean Winds eyes Japan – Calls for “track record-based” selection system
With Japan targeting 15 GW of floating wind by 2040, Craig Windram, CEO of Ocean Winds (Spain), expressed clear interest in entering the Japanese market. He urged policymakers to adopt a framework that values global operational experience, enabling international developers to compete on fair terms.
🔗 Read article (Nikkei – Japanese)
3. Floating turbines may attract fish – Nagasaki Univ. research with eDNA
A research team from Nagasaki University found evidence that floating offshore wind turbines may have a fish aggregating effect. Using environmental DNA (eDNA) near the Goto Islands, they detected higher horse mackerel DNA concentrations around turbines, suggesting an influence on fish behavior. This offers vital insights into balancing offshore wind growth with marine conservation.
🔗 Read article (University Journal – Japanese)
This Week’s Takeaway
- Kajima’s exit highlights cost risks for Japan’s large-scale projects
- Ocean Winds signals strong intent to enter Japan’s floating wind market
- Nagasaki University provides scientific evidence of fish aggregation
Summary: Cost pressures, global interest, and ecosystem impacts—Japan’s offshore wind market continues to evolve on multiple fronts.
Want to see the full picture of this month’s developments?
Check out the “Aug 2025 Monthly Digest” here.
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.
