Japan targets up to 45GW offshore wind by 2040

Japan aims to install between 30GW and 45GW of offshore wind by 2040 as part of the country’s aims to reach carbon neutrality by 2050.

The ministry of economy, trade and industry (Meti) also set an interim target of 10GW by 2030, following a committee meeting between government and industry representatives, according to media reports.

The 30-45GW offshore wind target matches the ambition called for by the Japanese Wind Power Association (JWPA), and would make it one of the world’s leaders in offshore wind.

The government plans to set a 60% local content target – domestically produced components must account for at least 60% of total capital expenditure – for offshore wind, according to Japanese newspaper Asahi Shimbun.

Japan plans to grow its offshore wind fleet through a series of regional auctions – including four rounds opened at the end of November.

The country currently has less than 100MW of operating offshore wind capacity, according to Windpower Intelligence, the research and data division of Windpower Monthly.