December 30, 2023
Japan

Bill submitted to restrict windpower construction that interferes with defense radar

"Bill to restrict wind farm construction set to be submitted to Diet" | December 29, 2023, mainichi.jp

The Japanese government is set to submit a new bill to a regular diet session convening early next year to restrict the construction of wind farms as they can potentially interfere with the Self-Defense Forces’ radar systems, sources familiar with the matter said Friday.

The legislation will obligate businesses to notify the government of their construction plans if those facilities are built in areas designated by the defense minister, according to the sources.

In cases where the government determines that a wind farm severely disrupts radar systems, it can prohibit its construction for two years.

The government believes that legal restrictions are necessary to mitigate interference by wind turbines and enhance radar capabilities, given the frequent launches of ballistic missiles by North Korea and intensified activities by Chinese aircraft around Japan.

Currently, businesses are advised to consult with the government before finalizing their plans to build or replace large-scale turbines for power generation, but the government’s calls are not legally binding.

In the meantime, since the government is trying to increase the use of wind power generation and other renewable energy sources to cut greenhouse gas emissions, it is unclear whether firms engaging in the wind power business will cooperate with the enactment of the bill.

The Defense Ministry said that wind turbines pose challenges to a radar’s precise target tracking and identification. Depending on the altitude and height of the turbines, their interference with radars can extend beyond 100 kilometers in certain situations.

The designated areas for restrictions will cover the surroundings of radar systems at 28 sites nationwide, according to the sources.

The government is also considering restrictions for the surrounding areas of radars of U.S. Forces in Japan.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2023/12/30/bill-submitted-to-restrict-windpower-construction-that-interferes-with-defense-radar/