A group of Japanese companies including Sumitomo and TEPCO have formed a consortium to pursue a bid in the country’s upcoming offshore wind tender.
The group, which also includes Japan Petroleum, Kato Construction and Venti Japan, will seek the rights for the zone off the Akita Prefecture.
Sumitomo said it has been conducting environmental impact assessments, seabed surveys and wind studies in the area off the cities of Noshire, Mitane and Oga since 2018.
“The consortium as the operating body will be making preparations for submitting a proposal for proprietary use and taking full advantage of the knowledge and know-how of its member companies to step up the process toward commercialisation,” added Sumitomo.
The company said the use of offshore wind in the country’s energy mix is an “urgent issue”.
“The sea area offers a very suitable natural environment, with its favourable wind conditions and relatively shallow waters, so it appears likely to be designated a promotion area,” it added.