DeepWind Weekly delivers a roundup of key developments in Japan’s offshore wind market every week.
This week focuses on major updates from Akita, Niigata, and Aomori.
News Highlights
1. Offshore wind off Akita to be re-tendered – Government revises requirements
Following Mitsubishi Corporation’s withdrawal, the Japanese government announced plans to revise tender conditions and re-launch auctions for two offshore wind zones off Yurihonjo and Noshiro/Mitane/Oga in Akita. New requirements are expected by year-end, with local leaders urging swift action.
2. Oga-Katagami-Akita offshore wind consortium sets up HQ – Certified as invited enterprise
Oga-Katagami-Akita Offshore Green Energy LLC, a consortium including JERA, has established its headquarters in Katagami City and was certified as an invited enterprise by Akita Prefecture. The project will install 21 fixed-bottom turbines (~260m tall), generating power for 300,000 households, with operation targeted for June 2028. Onshore transmission works have begun, and an O&M base will be established at Funakawa Port by March 2027.
3. Mitsui keeps Murakami-Tainai offshore wind project “on track” – Onshore works to start in October
Mitsui & Co., a partner in the Murakami-Tainai Offshore Wind Project, confirmed that onshore construction will begin in October, following delays in contractor selection. The project remains on schedule, targeting June 2029 commercial operation.
Mitsui acknowledged “cost challenges due to rising material prices and currency impacts,” but stressed that the overall timeline is intact. The project plans to install 38 turbines (total capacity 684 MW) across a 9,200-hectare sea area.
4. Aomori offshore wind faces challenges, but Tohoku Electric says “on track”
Despite Mitsubishi’s withdrawal from other projects, Tohoku Electric Power confirmed it will proceed as planned with the offshore wind project off Tsugaru and Ajigasawa in Aomori. The project, developed jointly with JERA and Green Power Investment, aims for 615 MW capacity and commercial operation in June 2030.
While acknowledging yen depreciation and rising material costs, the utility stressed ongoing efforts with partners and called for stronger national policy support.
This Week’s Takeaway
- Two Akita zones to be re-tendered under revised conditions
- Oga-Katagami-Akita consortium advances with HQ setup, targeting 2028
- Mitsui keeps Murakami-Tainai project on track, onshore works to start in October
- Aomori project stays on course despite cost pressures, with Tohoku Electric reaffirming commitment
Summary: This week highlighted the realities of offshore wind in Tohoku and Niigata—policy resets, local project momentum, and resilience under tough conditions.
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.
