Electricity generation from offshore wind energy Japan 2012-2021

In 2021, the electricity generated from offshore wind energy in Japan amounted to 105 gigawatt hours. Figures more than doubled compared to 44 gigawatt hours in 2012. Even though wind energy currently contributes only a small share of the overall energy supply in Japan, the offshore wind sector is expected to expand in the future.

Current status of wind energy in Japan 

Offshore wind energy is evolving with two main turbine types: bottom-fixed turbines in shallow waters and floating turbines in deeper waters. Floating turbines are advantageous, utilizing more space for wind energy, and being deployable in areas with consistent and powerful winds. In 2019, the Japanese government passed a bill granting companies the right to occupy the relevant marine areas for up to 30 years, promoting the installation of further wind power stations. In 2022, Japan ranked among the top five global players regarding offshore wind pipeline power capacity. This underlines the potential for an expansion of the industry.

Future prospect of wind energy in Japan

Japan's self-sufficiency rate from primary energy is currently limited to around 13 percent, making it highly dependent on energy imports. Therefore, prioritizing renewable energy is among the top goals for the island nation to become more independent.
The share of renewable energy in electricity production reached over 20 percent in recent years. However, since Japan is a mountainous country, there is a lack of space for renewable power facilities. Despite offshore wind power being well suited to Japan's geographical condition of being surrounded by the sea, the government has less ambitious plans, aiming to add only about ten gigawatts by 2030 and 30 to 45 gigawatts by 2040.