Analysis of Environmental and Economic Effectiveness of Wind Power Generation in Japan

Chapter 4 examines recent advances in wind power generation in the different regions of Japan, and finds a positive cost-benefit balance in favor of the expansion of generation capability.　The aim of the chapter is to analyze the effective use of the natural environment for wind power generation and to compare regional initiatives in this activity area, using existing survey results of wind power generation facilities in Japan and established research methods. First, an overview is offered of the current state of wind power generation and of the purposes and challenges of moving into this new area. This is followed by an analysis of the amount of wind power currently generated, the CO2 reduction effect, and the economic efficiency. In addition, the ripple effect of the construction of wind power generation plants on regional economies is analyzed, including the employment aspect.