Achiha Aiming to Become Japan’s Leading Renewable Energy Company

First established in 1923 as a transportation and installation firm, Achiha Co., Ltd. has since diversified into the renewables sector and is now one of the leading wind turbine operations and maintenance companies in Japan.

Where energy is concerned, the picture in Japan is, of course, complex, with 95% of the country’s supply currently imported. For his part, Achiha President Takaaki Achiha is in no doubt about the island nation’s ideal energy mix. 

“A balance between variable renewable energy, fixed-type energy like nuclear power and even a controlled amount of thermal power is essential.”

The majority of this mix, however, “should be composed of renewable energy sources.”

Generating renewable energy sources with wind turbines can be challenging for various reasons, but Mr. Achiha is adamant that his company’s approach sets it apart from competitors.

“Our method involves strategic considerations such as developing innovative products geared towards cost reduction. In fact, our primary concern is not just our operational expenses but the impact on civil engineering costs, a factor that significantly improves customer satisfaction.”

FTV blade lifter

One such innovation is Japan’s first tower crane developed exclusively for wind turbines. With a maximum working height of 150 meters and a capacity of 140 tons, tower cranes offer the advantage of working within existing spaces, not only helping to conserve the surrounding forest area, but also enabling operations in narrow spaces, thus contributing to environmental sustainability.

As well as having impeccable environmental credentials, the cranes also adhere to stringent Japanese production standards and are designed to withstand giant earthquakes.

Not that the company regards itself as the finished article. “In order for Japan’s wind power generation sector to develop further,” Mr. Achiha confirms, “it is vital that we continue to collaborate with overseas companies to leverage their advanced technologies.”

Now, the company is expanding its business to both the onshore and offshore wind power sectors, leveraging its position as project owner, EPC contractor, and operation and maintenance contractor.

Closer to home, in 2024 wind power projects are slated to be launched in both Hokkaido and Ishikawa Prefectures. 

Mr Achiha, meanwhile, has his sights firmly set on the next five years. “We are aiming to become Japan’s leading company in the renewable energy sector,” he states, “providing comprehensive services from wind power business development to construction and operation and maintenance works.”