The Japanese government is accelerating its push for offshore wind power. It sees floating turbines as more suitable for the country, and is preparing for tests.

There are four candidate areas: two in the northernmost prefecture of Hokkaido and one each in Akita and Aichi prefectures, in north and central Japan. About two of the four areas may be chosen.

The government has set offshore wind power as one of the pillars of its renewable energy policy. But the country has few shallow sea areas suitable for the anchored types, leaving floating versions as a more feasible option.

The government began accepting applications for companies to run the project this month, and successful candidates will be chosen around May. It will shoulder part of the operating costs until fiscal 2030.

The tests will start after environmental impact studies and negotiations with local fishing industry representatives are concluded.