offshore wind power generation in Japan:
Offshore Wind Power in Japan: Offshore wind power, involving the installation of large wind turbines in the ocean, is seen as a key technology for Japan to achieve carbon neutrality.
Importance of Wind Knowledge: The profitability of offshore wind power for energy companies heavily relies on accurate knowledge of ocean wind patterns. Without sufficient wind, energy production is not viable.
Teruo Ohsawa's Contributions: Teruo Ohsawa, a professor at Kobe University, produces detailed wind maps that provide information on wind velocities, crucial for identifying suitable locations for wind turbines.
Profitability Standard: To be profitable, offshore wind sites need an average annual wind speed of at least 7 meters per second. A 10% reduction in wind speed can lead to nearly a 30% decrease in generated electricity.
Challenges in Measurement: Due to the challenges of taking measurements far out at sea, simulations and predictive models are essential for accurate wind data.
Ohsawa’s Background: Ohsawa initially studied torrential rains and typhoons, and after being introduced to wind power by his supervisor, he became convinced of its potential in Japan, especially after observing offshore wind farms in Europe.
Renewed Interest Post-2011 Disaster: Interest in renewable energy, including wind power, surged in Japan following the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant disaster in 2011.
National Wind Prediction Project: In 2015, Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry launched a project to predict ocean winds and map related data, with Ohsawa playing a key role in developing predictive models.
Customized Models for Japan: Wind estimation models from other countries cannot be directly applied to Japan due to the complex wind patterns influenced by nearby mountains. Ohsawa optimized data for Japan's specific conditions.
Creation of "NeoWins" Map: By integrating data from the Japan Meteorological Agency with sea surface temperature data, Ohsawa developed the NeoWins map in 2017, providing highly accurate offshore wind condition forecasts with minimal error.
Challenges with Larger Turbines: Modern wind turbines have become larger, up to 250 meters in height, raising concerns about their repair and financial viability.
Necessity for Renewable Energy: Ohsawa warns that without expanding renewable energy, including wind power, the effects of rapid global warming—such as floods, droughts, and food shortages—could worsen.
Government Support and Ongoing Issues: The Japanese government supports the development of offshore wind power, but challenges remain, including reducing uncertainties in wind predictions and advancing remote observation technologies.
Future Goals: Ohsawa aims to make wind data freely accessible to support the growth of wind power in Japan, despite ongoing challenges in technology and data accuracy.