Wedoany.com Report-Jun 7, Japan’s parliament has approved legislation enabling the development of floating offshore wind projects within the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The new law, passed to address the challenges of deeper waters unsuitable for fixed-bottom wind turbines, marks a significant step in advancing Japan’s renewable energy initiatives.

The legislation authorizes the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI) to identify specific areas within the EEZ for floating wind development. It also empowers METI and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism (MLITT) to issue licenses for project development. To ensure a structured approach, the ministries will establish a council comprising developers with provisional status and relevant stakeholders. This council will define the criteria for granting licenses, as outlined in an analysis by World Forum Offshore.

Rebecca Williams, Deputy CEO of the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC), stated: “I’m really personally pleased to see that Japan has just passed the Bill allowing floating offshore wind to be built in the Exclusive Economic Zone. This will enable the next stages of floating wind within the market and fires the starting gun on the wider regulatory framework.”

The GWEC emphasized the need for collaboration between industry and government to create a clear and financially viable framework for EEZ projects. This includes streamlining permitting processes and ensuring access to necessary infrastructure. Additionally, the GWEC highlighted the importance of introducing mechanisms to reduce project risks and attract investment in floating wind technology, which is critical for scaling up this innovative energy solution.

The legislation supports Japan’s broader commitment to expanding renewable energy capacity and fostering sustainable development through advanced offshore wind technologies. By leveraging its EEZ, Japan aims to harness its deep-water resources to meet growing energy demands while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.