Why is Tsurui Village buying land near Kushiro Wetland?

Tsurui Village plans to buy about 10 hectares for ¥80 million to protect the landscape and environment around the Kushiro Wetland. Purchasing the land can limit large-scale construction, influence project layouts, and reflect community priorities. For investors, it signals greater municipal involvement that can reshape timelines and the buildable footprint of solar projects.

How could this affect Japan’s solar investment outlook?

Cases like Nihon Ecology’s point to rising permitting and community risks that can slow schedules and raise capex. Investors should require proof of access rights, plan for stakeholder engagement, and add buffers to timeline and budget. Portfolios that factor these risks in Hokkaido and similar regions are more likely to meet expected returns.

What due diligence steps help reduce similar risks?

Verify land titles and leases, confirm legal access easements, and secure permits for bridges or water crossings. Use GIS to check boundaries versus national land. Review community meeting records, environmental studies, and agency correspondence. Build contingency for redesign and restoration. These steps can prevent stoppages like the barred entry and bridge removal seen here.

Global Market Insights

February 28: Hokkaido Blocks Nihon Ecology Access at Kushiro Solar

ByDanny Kontos February 28, 2026February 28, 2026

Nihon Ecology faces new scrutiny in Hokkaido after officials said the developer used national land without permission for access to the Kushiro mega-solar site. The Hokkaido Finance Bureau plans to bar entry and order removal of a temporary bridge. At the same time, Tsurui Village will buy about 10 hectares near Kushiro Wetland for ¥80 million to protect the landscape. We explain what this means for project risk, timelines, and investment outlook in Japan’s solar market.