The Murakami Tainai Offshore Wind Power Project is a groundbreaking initiative set to accelerate Japan’s clean energy transformation. Located off the coasts of Murakami City and Tainai City in Niigata Prefecture, this large-scale development will play a key role in achieving Japan’s carbon neutrality goals while fostering economic growth and innovation. With a planned capacity of 684 MW, this project highlights Japan’s ambition to lead the offshore wind sector.
Project Overview
| Project name | Murakami Tainai Offshore Wind |
| Developer | Murakami Tainai Offshore Wind Consortium |
| stakeholders | Mitsui & Co., Ltd. RWE Offshore Wind Japan Murakami-Tainai K.K. Osaka Gas Co., Ltd. |
| Location | Offshore murakami and tainai City, nigata Prefecture |
| Type | Fixed-bottom Offshore Wind Power |
| WTG | ge |
| Price | 3 JPY/kWh |
| Capacity | 684 MW (18 MW × 38 turbines) |
| Start of Construction | april 2025 |
| Operation Period | june 2029 –2054 |
Location
Project Timeline & Development Phases
- 2024-Present: Environmental assessments, regulatory approvals, and stakeholder engagement
- 2025 April: Onshore construction begins
- 2027 June: Offshore foundation work commences
- 2028 May: Wind turbine installation starts
- 2029 June: Expected commercial operation date
The planned timeline reflects a structured, efficient development process that aligns with Japan’s renewable energy policies.
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. ¥282 billion ($1.9 billion USD), with long-term operational costs (OPEX) projected at approx. ¥4.8 billion annually.
📌 CAPEX & OPEX Breakdown for 684 MW:
| Investment Factor | Estimated Cost (Billion JPY) |
|---|---|
| Turbine Procurement | 155 |
| Foundation & Installation | 107 |
| Substations & Grid Connection | 20 |
| Operations & Maintenance (OPEX/year) | 4.8 |
Economic and Environmental Impact
Regional Economic Growth
The Murakami Tainai Offshore Wind Power Project is expected to create substantial economic opportunities through job creation, infrastructure expansion, and industrial collaboration. Key initiatives include:
- Supply Chain Development: Strengthening domestic production of wind energy components
- Workforce Training & Employment: Establishing training programs in offshore wind operations
- Local Business Participation: Encouraging regional enterprises to engage in project-related services
Environmental Sustainability
To minimize ecological impact and support marine biodiversity, the project incorporates rigorous environmental strategies, including:
- Marine Habitat Protection: Implementing eco-friendly siting practices to mitigate disruptions
- Fisheries Collaboration: Partnering with local fishing industries to ensure sustainable coexistence
- Biodiversity Monitoring: Using AI-driven tools to track the impact on birds and marine life
Technological Innovation & Global Expertise
The project leverages cutting-edge offshore wind technology and best practices from global leaders. Key advancements include:
- Next-Generation Wind Turbines: High-efficiency GE Haliade-X 250 turbines
- Smart Grid Integration: Collaborating with regional utilities for seamless energy distribution
- AI-Powered Predictive Maintenance: Enhancing operational reliability and efficiency
Community Engagement & Sustainable Development
A strong focus on community collaboration ensures long-term regional benefits, including:
- Support for Fisheries & Agriculture: Implementing economic initiatives for local industry sustainability
- Educational Programs: Partnering with institutions to promote offshore wind and renewable energy literacy
- Public Outreach & Awareness: Conducting informational sessions, community forums, and interactive workshops
Call to Action: Be Part of Japan’s Offshore Wind Revolution
The Murakami Tainai Offshore Wind Power Project is a landmark development in Japan’s offshore wind expansion. With a commitment to sustainability, economic progress, and cutting-edge technology, this initiative strengthens Japan’s position in the global renewable energy sector.
Stay ahead of the latest developments in offshore wind energy. Subscribe to J-WIND Times for exclusive insights, industry analysis, and project updates. Join the movement towards a cleaner, more sustainable future today!
