KenjiYamaji, director and chief researcher at the Research Institute of InnovativeTechnology for the Earth, will lead the discussions. The Japan PhotovoltaicEnergy Association (JPEA) and the Japan Wind Power Association (JWPA) willparticipate as observers.

Theauthorities are expected to slightly reduce the solar FIT from the start of thenext fiscal year on 1 April. The government also appears set to introduce aseparate FIT rate for offshore wind projects, to encourage development of thefledgling sector.