The Oga Katagami Akita Offshore Wind Power Project is a transformative initiative designed to accelerate Japan’s transition toward renewable energy. Located off the coasts of Oga City, Katagami City, and Akita City in Akita Prefecture, this project will contribute to the nation’s clean energy ambitions while fostering economic growth and technological innovation. With a planned capacity of 315 MW, the project underscores Japan’s commitment to offshore wind development.
Project Overview
| Project name | Oga Katagami Akita Offshore Wind |
| Developer | Oga Katagami Akita Offshore Green Energy LLC |
| Partners | JERA Co., Inc. Electric Power Development Co., Ltd. Tohoku Electric Power Co., Inc. ITOCHU Corp. |
| Location | Offshore Oga Katagami Akita City, AKITA Prefecture |
| Type | Fixed-bottom Offshore Wind Power |
| WTG | vestas |
| Price | 3 JPY/kWh |
| Capacity | 315 MW (15 MW × 21 turbines) |
| Start of Construction | march 2026 |
| Operation Period | june 2028 – 2053 |
Location
Project Timeline & Development Phases
- 2023-Present: Environmental assessments, detailed design, and stakeholder engagement
- 2025 April: Onshore construction begins
- 2027 April: Offshore foundation work commences
- 2027 July: Wind turbine installation starts
- 2028 June: Expected commercial operation date
The structured timeline ensures an efficient and environmentally responsible construction process, aligning with Japan’s renewable energy goals.
CAPEX & OPEX Estimates (Based on NEDO Model)
The capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operational expenditure (OPEX) estimates follow the latest NEDO offshore wind cost model.
The estimated capital expenditure (CAPEX) for the Chiba Choshi Offshore Wind is approx. ¥130 billion ($0.9 billion USD), with long-term operational costs (OPEX) projected at approx. ¥2.2 billion annually.
📌 CAPEX & OPEX Breakdown for 315 MW:
| Investment Factor | Estimated Cost (Billion JPY) |
|---|---|
| Turbine Procurement | 71 |
| Foundation & Installation | 49 |
| Substations & Grid Connection | 9 |
| Operations & Maintenance (OPEX/year) | 2.2 |
Economic and Environmental Impact
Regional Economic Growth
The Oga Katagami Akita Offshore Wind Power Project is expected to generate significant economic benefits through job creation, infrastructure development, and industry collaboration. Key initiatives include:
- Local Business Engagement: Promoting partnerships with regional manufacturers and service providers
- Workforce Training & Development: Establishing programs for offshore wind professionals
- Supply Chain Strengthening: Enhancing domestic procurement for wind energy components
Environmental Sustainability
The project integrates rigorous environmental measures to minimize ecological impact and support marine biodiversity. Strategies include:
- Marine Habitat Protection: Careful siting to mitigate effects on fisheries and marine ecosystems
- Sustainable Coexistence with Fisheries: Engaging local fishing communities for long-term partnerships
- Advanced Wildlife Monitoring: Implementing AI-driven tracking of bird and marine species
Technological Innovation & Global Expertise
The project leverages state-of-the-art offshore wind technology and best practices from global leaders. Key innovations include:
- High-Efficiency Wind Turbines: Advanced Vestas V236 turbines for optimized energy output
- Smart Grid Integration: Coordinating with domestic utilities for efficient power transmission
- Predictive Maintenance Systems: Utilizing AI and digital twin technology for reliability improvements
Community Engagement & Sustainable Development
A central focus of the project is fostering strong relationships with local communities and ensuring long-term benefits through:
- Support for Fisheries & Agriculture: Developing economic initiatives for sustainable local industries
- Educational Programs: Collaborating with schools and universities to promote renewable energy education
- Public Information Initiatives: Hosting workshops, open forums, and engagement sessions
Conclusion: Advancing Japan’s Offshore Wind Leadership
The Oga Katagami Akita Offshore Wind Power Project is a crucial milestone in Japan’s offshore wind expansion. With its emphasis on sustainability, economic revitalization, and cutting-edge technology, the project positions Japan as a leader in the global renewable energy market.
For investors, policymakers, and renewable energy enthusiasts, this initiative represents a bold step forward. Stay tuned to J-WIND Times for the latest insights and updates on Japan’s offshore wind sector.
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