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Kushiro Mega Solar Project Faces Mounting Opposition and Scrutiny
Table of Contents
Updated October 2, 2025, 06:21:38 AM PDT
What Happened?
The proposed Kushiro Mega Solar project in Hokkaido, Japan, is facing increasing criticism and calls for cancellation due to concerns over its environmental impact, especially on the local ecosystem and the endangered Japanese crane (Grus japonensis).On September 29, 2025, prominent architect and critic, Noguchi Ken, publicly expressed his frustration with Hokkaido Governor Naomichi Suzuki’s lack of decisive action, questioning why an order to halt the project hadn’t been issued as reported by Hokkaido Shimbun.
The project, spearheaded by hokkaido Electric Power Company, aims to construct a large-scale solar power plant covering approximately 300 hectares of land within the Kushiro Marshland. Proponents argue the project is crucial for increasing renewable energy production in Hokkaido and contributing to Japan’s national climate goals. However,opponents contend the scale of the project poses a significant threat to the delicate balance of the marsh ecosystem.
Environmental Concerns and the Japanese Crane
the Kushiro Marsh is a vital habitat for the Japanese crane, a species that was once on the brink of extinction. Conservation efforts have successfully increased the crane population, but the species remains vulnerable.Critics argue that the construction and operation of the mega-solar project will disrupt the cranes’ feeding grounds, breeding areas, and migratory routes. Specifically, the removal of vegetation and alteration of the landscape could reduce the availability of food sources for the cranes, such as snails and insects.
Beyond the cranes, the project raises concerns about the impact on other wildlife inhabiting the marsh, including various bird species, mammals, and amphibians.The alteration of water flow patterns and the introduction of artificial structures could also negatively affect the marsh’s unique wetland ecosystem.
Timeline of events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 2024 (Q1) | Hokkaido Electric Power company announces plans for the Kushiro Mega Solar project. |
| 2024 (Q2-Q4) | Initial environmental assessments are conducted. Local residents begin to voice concerns. |
| 2025 (March) | Environmental impact statement released; faces criticism from conservation groups. |
| 2025 (September 29) | Architect Noguchi Ken publicly criticizes Governor Suzuki’s inaction.
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