OMNI Features｜Toyota Tsusho Plans to Invest 1 Trillion Yen in Renewable Energy　Aiming at Offshore Wind Power in Japan and Europe．Hallim Offshore Wind Project Under Investigation for Unlawful Construction．Geelong Port in Australia Seeks to Become Victoria's Offshore Wind Power Development Hub

(Source: Pixabay｜Credit for_aitoff)

｜Toyota Tsusho Plans to Invest 1 Trillion Yen in Renewable Energy　Aiming at Offshore Wind Power in Japan and Europe
Toyota Tsusho Corp. plans to invest ¥1 trillion in renewable energy over the next decade, increasing its budget by ¥300 billion to meet growing global demand. By 2030, it aims to double its current capacity from 4,900 MW to 10 GW, with a focus on developing projects in emerging markets such as Africa and India. In Africa, the company has established "Aeolus" and is collaborating with Scatec to build a 100 MW solar power plant in Tunisia, set to begin operations in late 2025.

Vice President Toshimitsu Imai emphasized the need for diverse renewable energy strategies tailored to each country's needs. Toyota Tsusho, already a key player in wind and solar power, plans to expand into offshore wind in Japan and Europe. Additionally, the company will increase its investments in battery and resource recycling sectors by ¥500 billion, enhancing efforts in vehicle battery production and raw material procurement.

｜Hallim Offshore Wind Project Under Investigation for Unlawful Construction
Jeju Hallim Offshore Wind Power, the largest wind farm project in South Korea, is under investigation for damaging an absolute preservation zone. The Jeju Autonomous Police found that part of the construction, involving laying cables along the coast, extended beyond the permitted area. The project is accused of violating the Jeju Special Law, and the case has been referred to the prosecution.

The company claims it is difficult to respond while investigations are ongoing. However, further investigations have revealed additional legal violations, including unpermitted use of public waters. Calls for the project's cancellation have emerged, and its completion, initially set for next month, is now uncertain pending the investigation results.

｜Geelong Port in Australia Seeks to Become Victoria's Offshore Wind Power Development Hub
GeelongPort is positioning itself as a key player in Victoria's offshore wind sector, aiming to develop up to 25 hectares at its Oyster Cove site and establish a new terminal to support the renewable energy industry in the Gippsland and Southern Ocean zones. The terminal is expected to streamline environmental approvals, with completion targeted for late 2028 or early 2029, aligning with Victoria's renewable energy goals.

Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles highlighted the terminal's role in driving both renewable energy development and regional economic growth, forecasting over 4,200 jobs during construction and 850 additional positions once operational. GeelongPort's strategic location and fast-track capabilities are expected to help the state meet its target of 2 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2032.

Reference: Nikkei Asia｜jejumbc.com｜Daily Cargo News