Officials in Hokkaido, northern Japan, have called for a halt to the construction of a major solar power project near the country's largest wetland. Prefectural officials informed the Osaka-based developer on Tuesday, citing the company's failure to get approval from the governor of Hokkaido before starting construction.

The solar project involves plans to install 6,600 solar panels in wooded areas near the Kushiro Marsh National Park. The development has drawn scrutiny from local authorities after the company proceeded with construction without proper regulatory approval.

Regulatory Compliance Issues

Companies constructing solar-power facilities on privately managed forests are legally required to notify the local governor if the affected land exceeds 0.5 hectares. The operator claimed it believed the site was smaller than the threshold and proceeded with construction based on that belief.

However, when officials conducted an inspection of the site in August, they discovered the project area extended to more than 0.8 hectares. This finding placed the project well above the legal threshold requiring gubernatorial notification and approval before construction could begin.

Tightened Development Requirements

The regulatory framework governing such developments has become more stringent in recent years. The Forestry Agency tightened legal requirements on development three years ago, implementing these changes amid a growing number of solar-power projects being established in woodlands across Japan. These enhanced regulations reflect increased oversight of renewable energy projects that impact forested areas, particularly those near environmentally sensitive locations.

Environmental Concerns

Environmental conservation groups have raised significant concerns about the project's proximity to the Kushiro wetland. The groups argue that the solar installation would negatively affect the habitats of rare red-crowned cranes and white-tailed eagles, both of which are classified as endangered species. The location of the project near the Kushiro Marsh National Park has intensified these environmental concerns, as the wetland serves as a critical habitat for these protected bird species.

The marsh represents Japan's largest wetland ecosystem, making the potential ecological impact of nearby development a matter of particular concern for conservation advocates.

Connect with Decision-makers about the Latest Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Projects in Japan for business Opportunities.

Subscribe to our database on Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Projects and Tenders in Japan to get access to reliable and high-quality insights on upcoming, Under-construction, and completed Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Projects across the world, or in your desired geographical location.

Our user-friendly platform provides essential details, timely updates, key stakeholder contact information, and business opportunities tailored for engineering companies, industry professionals, investors, and government agencies.