YKK AP (Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo) announced on June 16 that it has achieved the highest rank, Class S, in the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry's "Business Class Classification Evaluation System" for 10 consecutive years. This system evaluates energy-saving efforts by classifying them into S, A, B, and C categories. In the fiscal year 2024, YKK AP achieved a reduction of 2.1%, significantly exceeding its energy consumption efficiency improvement target of "1.0% reduction per year." This was supported by the smart factory transformation of its manufacturing facilities, the introduction of energy management systems, the conversion of lighting to LED, enhanced roof insulation, and the proactive adoption of solar power generation. The renewable energy generation capacity reached 16.2 MW as of March 2025. Furthermore, the new headquarters building "YKK AP30 Building" has adopted passive design utilizing natural energy and has achieved ZEB (Zero Energy Building) status. The company is promoting information disclosure and widely communicating its energy-saving initiatives. YKK AP is committed to contributing to the creation of a sustainable society through energy conservation and the utilization of renewable energy in the future.

Toyama Daiichi Bank (located in Toyama City, Toyama Prefecture) announced on June 12 that it has entered into an off-site PPA contract with Hokuriku Electric Power to start supplying renewable energy generated within the prefecture to its branches. This model is gaining attention as a "local production for local consumption" approach to utilizing renewable energy. The solar power plant being newly established by Biz Energy Solutions, a group company of Hokuriku Electric Power, in Tonami City, Toyama Prefecture, will have an output of approximately 316 kW and an annual generation capacity of about 340 MWh. The electricity generated here will be supplied to Toyama Daiichi Bank's five branches in the prefecture, with about 28% of each branch's electricity consumption being switched to renewable energy. This is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 170 tons annually. The contract period is 20 years, with operations set to begin in December 2025. In addition, Hokuriku Electric Power has also entered into a similar contract with the Yomiuri Shimbun Tokyo headquarters to supply solar-derived electricity to factories in the Kanto region. Moving forward, the company will continue to promote the spread of off-site PPAs to achieve regional decarbonization and a sustainable society.

Yanmar Holdings (Osaka City) announced on June 11 that it will start a "farming-type solar power generation (solar sharing)" project that balances agriculture and solar power generation on farmland. The model project will be launched in Shiga Prefecture and Okayama Prefecture from April 2026, aiming to expand to 1,000 hectares nationwide by the fiscal year 2030. This project consists of two models: the "farmer-operated type," where farmers continue their agricultural activities while receiving support funds from Yanmar, and the "in-house farming type," where Yanmar rents farmland and manages everything from farming to sales. The electricity generated from solar power will be supplied to Yanmar Group facilities, with the farm in Shiga Prefecture expected to generate approximately 78,000 kWh annually, reducing CO2 emissions by about 33 tons per year. Additionally, the initiative will address various social issues, including soil improvement using biochar, support for new farmers, and employment for people with disabilities. This effort is part of the "SAVE THE FARMS by YANMAR" project, contributing to the utilization of abandoned farmland and regional revitalization.

The latest "Calcophyllite Solar Cells" have been installed at the international terminal building of Fukuoka Airport. These solar cells are characterized by their ultra-lightweight and thin design, weighing only 0.8 kg per square meter. Because they can be installed without putting a burden on the roofs of buildings and facilities, they are attracting attention as a technology that greatly expands the possibilities of solar power generation in the future. The installation and demonstration experiments will be conducted by Kyuden Mirai Energy. The solar cells are provided by PXP Corporation, the construction is handled by Kyudenko, and the installation support is provided by JGC Corporation, with performance and construction feasibility being verified from December 2025 to February 2026. Particularly in places like airports, the shape of the roof and the impact of reflected light are also important verification points. This time, practical usability will be confirmed, including those factors. Fukuoka Airport is also planning an exhibition to introduce the details of the experiment. The day may soon come when lightweight and high-performance solar cells become the "norm" in future buildings.

Mitsui Sumitomo Construction, in collaboration with Chugoku Electric Power and Chuden Technical Consultant, will work on research for a "floating solar power generation system (floating offshore solar)." This project has been officially adopted as a supported initiative by NEDO, a national research institution. Mitsui Sumitomo Construction, which has built a track record with "floating solar" installations on water surfaces such as reservoirs, is now taking the next step by challenging power generation at sea. This time, they will install panels with an output of approximately 50 kW in the waters off Osaki Kamijima in Hiroshima Prefecture to demonstrate whether they can withstand harsh natural environments such as changes in waves, wind, tide heights, and salt damage. The experiments are set to begin in the latter half of fiscal year 2025 and are expected to continue until the end of fiscal year 2028. They will assess whether safe and stable power generation can be achieved at sea and whether it can eventually become a viable business. The company has already conducted small-scale experiments in Tokyo Bay, and this initiative marks a significant step toward full-scale commercialization. We will continue to pay attention to the new possibilities of solar power expanding from "land" to "sea." - If you are considering installation, now is the chance! Kenneth Energy Development supports companies in reducing electricity costs and achieving environmental management through industrial rooftop solar power generation.

A bill to mandate the recycling of solar panels was postponed from being submitted to the National Diet, prompting the environmental economic organization **Japan Climate Leaders Partnership (JCLP)** to publish a statement expressing strong concerns on September 18. The background to this is the expectation that the annual disposal of solar panels will increase to about 500,000 tons starting in the late 2030s. The government had been considering a system to mandate recycling, but difficulties in adjusting the cost burden led to the postponement. JCLP pointed out the need for the early establishment of a flexible and effective system for the effective use of resources, prevention of illegal dumping, and the creation of domestic employment. They stated their commitment to proactively work towards achieving both decarbonization and a circular economy. Additionally, they strongly urged the government to design a system that allows all power generation companies to participate in recycling, stating that there are limits to what can be achieved through the voluntary efforts of businesses alone. Furthermore, Environment Minister Asao announced a policy for reviewing the system at a press conference in August, explaining that consistency with existing recycling laws is a challenge.

After the "Logistics 2024 Problem" in 2024, the transportation industry is facing limits in both personnel and operations due to the aging of drivers and labor hour regulations. On the other hand, the electricity consumption of warehouses, distribution centers, and refrigerated facilities is increasing year by year. Electricity prices have risen by about 36% in the past five years, putting pressure on fuel costs, labor costs, and storage costs. -- As the workforce decreases and costs rise, the fundamental cause of this structure lies in the "business model that relies on people and external power." In this context, "self-consumption solar power systems" are gaining attention. By installing them on roofs, garages, and warehouses, companies can generate and consume their own electricity during the day. Furthermore, by combining with storage batteries, stable supply is possible even at night or during power outages. Companies that have implemented this have achieved up to a 28% reduction in electricity costs and a reduction of 96 tons of CO₂ annually. Even with fewer people, solar power can generate income. Self-sufficiency in electricity through renewable energy is the "new workforce" that supports the future of logistics.

Mitsubishi HC Capital announced that it will begin a demonstration experiment of perovskite solar cells for cold regions in collaboration with Enecoat Technologies and Hokkaido Electric Power. The experiment will take place in Hokkaido, where the harsh cold can drop to minus 25°C, and will thoroughly examine the durability and power generation performance of the solar cells under such conditions. Starting in August 2025, the performance will be checked by artificially recreating an extreme cold environment in Hokkaido Electric Power's "constant temperature and humidity room." After that, the solar cells will be installed in actual homes to test their power generation performance on windows and exterior walls. The experiment is expected to continue until October 2026. Mitsubishi HC will analyze the economic aspects, Enecoat will handle the manufacturing of the solar cells, and Hokkaido Electric Power will provide facilities and data analysis. By leveraging each company's strengths, they aim to realize solar cells that can be used in snowy regions. Incidentally, YKK AP is also conducting a similar demonstration at the Sapporo Snow Festival, confirming that power generation is possible even with vertical installation, which may accelerate the utilization of renewable energy in snow-covered areas. - If you are considering installation, now is the time! Kenneth Energy Development supports companies in reducing electricity costs and achieving environmental management through industrial rooftop solar power generation.

~ Are lightweight, flexible solar panels becoming mainstream? ~ Film-type perovskite solar cells, organic thin-film solar cells, and lightweight crystalline silicon solar cells are all lightweight and flexible solar panels that stand apart from the traditional "heavy and rigid" panels and are now vying for the spotlight. 〇 Why is "lightweight" gaining attention now? Conventional solar panels are heavy, and due to structural limitations, there have been many cases where they cannot be installed on roofs. This has been particularly true for small to medium-sized factories, warehouses, and hospitals in urban areas, where weight restrictions have become a barrier to installation. This is where the "lightweight and flexible" new panels come into focus. 〇 The key to full-scale development towards 2040: "Perovskite solar cells" The film-type perovskite solar cells are expected to drive future growth. - If you're considering installation, now is the chance! Kenneth Energy Development supports companies in reducing electricity costs and achieving environmental management through industrial rooftop solar power generation.

The energy policy promoted by the government has finally made a significant shift from "quantity to quality." The previous large-scale introduction of renewable energy policies relied on inexpensive foreign-made panels, leading to the chaotic installation of mega-solar farms across Japan's land, which created environmental, landscape, and waste issues. As a result, Japan's energy self-sufficiency rate remains at a mere 13%, and even with the advancement of renewable energy, "import dependence" has not been resolved. In light of this reflection, the focus moving forward will be on "developing domestic energy technologies" and promoting "self-consumption type renewable energy." Among these, perovskite solar cells are lightweight, highly efficient, and offer great flexibility in installation, making them a trump card for "decentralized renewable energy" that can be easily retrofitted onto building walls and roofs. Kenneth Energy Development Co., Ltd. is developing a "selective self-consumption solar power generation system" that utilizes domestic panels and perovskite technology. Based on a track record of 83 projects nationwide and a total construction cost of 908.4 billion yen, it supports the industry's "energy independence." Now, renewable energy is entering an era of "security infrastructure."

"Perovskite solar cells" are once again emerging at the center of Japan's renewable energy policy. Mr. Takai has proposed "nurturing domestic technology for renewable energy" as part of energy and industrial policy, causing related stocks to attract attention in the market as the "Takai trade." The background to this is Japan's long-standing dependence on foreign-made panels in its renewable energy structure. While inexpensive imports have supported proliferation, they have also left a "negative legacy" of forest development, disposal risks, and price fluctuations. If this continues, both the land and energy supply will be controlled by foreign entities—this sense of crisis is the trigger for policy change. Perovskite solar cells possess the trifecta of being lightweight, highly efficient, and low-cost, making installation in existing buildings easy. Development is progressing as a domestic technology, and it is expected to become a mainstay for self-consumption power generation in the future. Kenneth Energy Development Co., Ltd. is developing a "next-generation self-consumption solar power system" with an eye on these perovskite cells. With over 8,000 installations nationwide and expertise in subsidy support, they are turning companies' "energy independence" into reality.

The government's renewable energy policy is reaching a turning point. As Mr. Takai expressed concern that "foreign-made panels will cover Japan's land," energy "security" is entering a new phase. Relying heavily on the large-scale introduction of overseas panels has led to issues such as forest development and waste disposal. If the review continues to be delayed, it has been pointed out that there is a possibility of over 100 million used panels remaining in the country after 2030. The root cause is "excessive dependence on a low-cost imported electricity structure." To build a truly sustainable renewable energy policy, it is essential to shift to a "locally produced and consumed" energy model. Kenneth Energy Development Co., Ltd.'s self-consumption solar power generation system is committed to domestic equipment, domestic design, and domestic construction, boasting over 8,000 installations nationwide. Companies that have adopted this system have achieved an average reduction of 28% in electricity costs and a significant reduction in CO₂ emissions simultaneously. Now, with the review of renewable energy policies, the ability to generate power in-house is becoming a new competitive advantage for businesses.

Foreign-made solar panels are covering Japan's land." This statement by Sanae Takaichi, the Minister for Economic Security, has caused a stir. As a result of clearing forests and the proliferation of overseas mega-solar projects, landslide disasters, environmental destruction, and issues with discarded panels have emerged in various regions. Furthermore, with the increasing geopolitical risks of the manufacturing countries, "cheap renewable energy" is now being said to pose a security threat. Takaichi has explicitly stated that "renewable energy should be promoted using domestic technology," emphasizing the idea of nurturing perovskite solar cells as a "national technology." This marks a clear shift in renewable energy policy from "quantity to quality" and from "foreign-made to domestic." Amidst this trend, self-consumption solar power systems are gaining attention. These systems complete the process from generation to consumption within the company, achieving local production and consumption of energy. Kenneth Energy Development Co., Ltd. is promoting the "domestication of renewable energy" for factories, logistics, and educational facilities, with a track record of 83 installations nationwide and designs compatible with domestic panels. The era of mega-solar is over, and now it is time for "renewable energy that protects the country.

The statement made by Ms. Sanae Takaichi regarding the promotion of perovskite solar cells is generating buzz. Indeed, perovskite is lightweight and is attracting attention as a next-generation material, but practical application is still a way off. There are several hurdles remaining before commercialization, including mass production costs, durability, and power generation efficiency. On the other hand, the high electricity prices and the demand for carbon neutrality cannot wait. Companies that are "actually operating now" are opting for self-consumption rooftop solar power generation. Ground-mounted mega-solar projects face headwinds due to landscape and environmental regulations, but utilizing the roofs of factories, warehouses, and stores comes with substantial subsidies. Existing high-efficiency panels (especially those from Chinese Tier 1 manufacturers) boast power generation efficiencies exceeding 22% and a 25-year output guarantee, with a level of technological maturity that is unmatched. Rather than chasing dreams of the future, realizing "lower electricity costs now" is the best strategy for corporate management. Now, during the perovskite boom, attention is turning to realistic choices—self-consumption solar power.

In recent years, the soaring electricity prices, coupled with frequent natural disasters and power outage risks, have led many factories, warehouses, and stores to postpone considerations with the mindset of "we'll think about it someday." As a result, there have been numerous instances of operational halts and inventory losses during large-scale power outages, and many companies have faced annual cost increases of several million yen solely due to electricity expenses. However, the fundamental issue lies in a business model that ends with merely "buying electricity." The failure to utilize solar power and storage batteries as "company assets" by leveraging their own roofs and premises, along with the inability to fully utilize government and local subsidies, continues to generate increased costs and BCP (Business Continuity Planning) concerns. Currently, the generation cost of self-consumption solar power is expected to be less than 10 yen/kWh, and there are national subsidies (up to one-third) and high-rate local subsidies (between one-half to two-thirds) available for industrial solar power and storage batteries. Furthermore, our company has successfully established numerous self-consumption projects exceeding 100 kW and projects with storage batteries nationwide, achieving over 200,000 kWh in generation and electricity cost reductions annually. "Storage batteries × subsidies = assets, cost reduction, environmental conservation, BCP." The longer you wait, the more electricity costs and opportunity losses will grow. First, please check your company's dedicated investment recovery simulation based on your own roof and electricity bill details.

Tokyo Marine & Nichido Risk Consulting (Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo) announced on June 16 that it has revised its snow disaster risk assessment method for its weather disaster risk assessment service aimed at solar power generation facilities. This revision allows for the estimation of past snowfall amounts at any location across the country, enabling a more specific evaluation of the risk of equipment damage due to snow accumulation. This update addresses the increasing damage to solar power facilities caused by snowfall in recent years and supports rapid decision-making for power generation operators, investors, and financial institutions. Previously, data from the Architectural Institute of Japan was used, but from now on, the "Mesh Agricultural Weather Data" from the National Agriculture and Food Research Organization will be utilized. Snowfall amounts will be estimated on a 1km mesh basis, taking into account factors such as temperature and elevation, allowing for more accurate risk assessments. Tokyo Marine & Nichido Risk Consulting has also provided risk assessments for flooding, landslides, and wind disasters, which are used as resources for renewable energy operators to understand and prepare for disaster risks.

Hokuriku Electric Power (Toyama Prefecture) and Marubeni New Power (Tokyo) announced on June 17 that they have begun supplying renewable energy to Kaga Toshiba Electronics (Nomi City, Ishikawa Prefecture). This initiative is expected to reduce CO₂ emissions by approximately 13,000 tons annually, which is equivalent to the emissions of about 5,000 average households. In this project, Marubeni New Power aggregates electricity generated from multiple solar power plants and supplies it to Kaga Toshiba Electronics through an off-site corporate PPA facilitated by Hokuriku Electric Power. The total generation capacity is approximately 24 MW, with an annual generation of about 27 GWh, and the supply commenced in June for a period of 20 years. Hokuriku Electric Power aims to increase renewable energy development by over 1 million kW by the early 2030s and is expanding services such as PPAs. Marubeni New Power also plans to increase its renewable energy handling capacity to 5 million kW by 2030. Both companies are committed to contributing to the realization of a decarbonized society and the creation of a sustainable society.

Cosmo Energy Holdings (Minato-ku, Tokyo) announced on June 18 that its group company, Cosmo Eco Power, has signed a "Physical PPA" contract with Eneglobal (Tsukuba City, Ibaraki Prefecture) to directly supply solar power to businesses. Under this contract, renewable energy will be procured for approximately 16 years from seven solar power plants (totaling 7,200 kW) managed by a group company of Eneglobal in Ibaraki Prefecture. The generated electricity and environmental value will be consolidated by the Cosmo Energy Group and supplied to consumers. Cosmo Energy Solutions will be responsible for sales to renewable energy consumers. The power plants include "agricultural solar" that allows for the coexistence of farmland and solar power generation, contributing to the continuity of local agriculture. Stable sales revenue from electricity is also expected through the utilization of the FIP system. The Cosmo Group and Eneglobal stated that they will "continue efforts towards the spread of renewable energy and the realization of a carbon-neutral society."

Tokyo Electric Power Holdings (Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo) announced on June 20 that it will collaborate with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government to install a mega-solar and green hydrogen production facility at the "Outer Central Breakwater Landfill" in Koto Ward. The basic design is scheduled for fiscal year 2025, with operations aimed to begin in fiscal year 2028. The plan includes the establishment of solar power generation with an output of over 1MW and an "electrolysis facility" that produces 100Nm³ of hydrogen per hour by splitting water using electricity. The hydrogen produced here will be compressed and transported for use in power generation and factories. Additionally, water supply facilities and management buildings will also be developed. Hydrogen is expected to serve as a solution to the weaknesses of solar and wind energy, which are affected by weather, as it can store large amounts of energy for long periods. Green hydrogen is an important energy source for a decarbonized society, as it does not emit CO₂ during production. Tokyo Electric Power has a track record of utilizing renewable energy and hydrogen, including hydrogen demonstration projects in Yamanashi Prefecture, and aims to further promote the adoption of renewable energy and hydrogen in Japan through this initiative.

Hokuriku Electric Power (Toyama City, Toyama Prefecture) announced on June 20 that it will introduce an "off-site PPA" utilizing floating solar power generation (mega-solar) by collaborating with Kaga City in Ishikawa Prefecture and Kaga Furusato Denki, using agricultural reservoirs. The generated renewable energy will be supplied to public facilities such as city halls and elementary and junior high schools, with usage expected to begin in March 2026. In this project, approximately 1,000 kW of solar panels installed on the reservoir are expected to generate about 1.2 million kWh annually. This is equivalent to the electricity consumption of about 430 average households and is anticipated to reduce CO₂ emissions by approximately 520 tons per year. This is the first time an off-site PPA has been introduced for public facilities in Kaga City, and it is also the first initiative of its kind for the Hokuriku Electric Power Group in floating solar. This project is part of the "Kaga City version of RE100," aiming to supply the city's energy with locally produced renewable energy. Hokuriku Electric Power and Kaga City will continue activities that contribute to regional decarbonization and economic circulation.

JA Mitsui Lease (Chuo Ward, Tokyo) announced on June 23 that it will begin an initiative to reuse and recycle properties after the expiration of leases in collaboration with its group company, JA Mitsui Lease Asset, and Reitem (Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo). This initiative aims to collect used information equipment and solar panels and circulate resources through reuse and recycling. Specifically, it will support the reuse of information equipment through secure data deletion and promote the recycling of solar panels. Additionally, it will jointly hold seminars on environmental measures and legal systems for companies engaged in decarbonization management. Reitem will utilize its own recycling factory and nationwide network to aim for the realization of a circular economy with advanced technology. The JA Mitsui Lease Group aims to achieve a recycling rate of 99.8% for returned leased properties by the fiscal year ending March 2025. It will continue to strengthen its efforts toward creating a sustainable society.

Bell System 24 Holdings (Minato-ku, Tokyo) announced on June 24 that it has begun new initiatives at the "Kobe Solution Center" in Sanda City, Hyogo Prefecture, aimed at protecting the global environment and realizing diverse work styles. The center is positioned as a "Sustainable Center" contributing to a sustainable society. In May 2025, an LED garden will be established within the center to grow vegetables using artificial light. This is expected to improve indoor CO₂ absorption and air quality, and the vegetables grown will be used to promote employee health through internal sales. Additionally, solar power generation equipment will be installed in the center's parking and bicycle parking areas. The electricity generated will supply the entire facility and the LED garden. Furthermore, as part of its efforts to reduce food waste, the company is introducing "food waste reduction vending machines" and "vending machines that consume CO₂," among other initiatives for environmental protection. The company aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040 and plans to expand similar initiatives to its locations nationwide in the future.

Cosmo Eco Power (Shinagawa, Tokyo) and Japan Benex (Isahaya, Nagasaki) signed a "Physical PPA contract" on June 25, utilizing solar power generation facilities. This system supplies renewable energy generated from the roofs of logistics facilities for a period of 20 years. In this project, Japan Benex will install approximately 5.5 MW of power generation facilities in Kanagawa and Hyogo Prefectures and will also be responsible for their management. The generated electricity will be consumed on-site, and any surplus will be sold using the FIP system. Cosmo Eco Power will aggregate the electricity and deliver it to consumers through its group company, Cosmo Energy Solutions. Additionally, Japan Benex has installed a power generation facility of approximately 1.3 MW on the roof of the logistics facility "MFLP Amagasaki I" in Amagasaki, Hyogo Prefecture, and has begun operations. As a result, Japan Benex now has a total of 48 power generation facilities nationwide, with a total output of approximately 63.6 MW, of which 31 facilities utilize the roofs of logistics facilities. This initiative is a good example of how companies can leverage large roof spaces they own to promote the spread of renewable energy and the effective use of electricity.

Excelsior Japan, a renewable energy company based in Chuo-ku, Tokyo, announced on July 2 that the "Funaki Solar Power Plant," constructed in Ube City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, has completed its trial operation and has begun full-scale operations. The output is 14.4 MW, with an annual power generation of approximately 17,200 MWh, all of which will be supplied to Amazon. This power plant is one of the projects supporting Amazon's goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040. Amazon aims for net-zero emissions ten years ahead of the Paris Agreement targets, and this initiative will contribute to that achievement. Additionally, Excelsior has donated emergency generators and disaster prevention supplies such as tents to Ube City as part of its community contribution. This also plays a role in enhancing the region's disaster preparedness. Excelsior is based in Spain and operates renewable energy projects around the world. It is also advancing several solar power projects within Japan.

Nippon Steel Engineering announced on July 3 that it has installed a new battery storage system at the "Aoyagi Solar Park I" in Koga City, Fukuoka Prefecture, and has begun operations for power management. This power plant is a mega-solar facility with an output of 2.6MW and has been in operation since 2018. In line with the transition to the FIP system, three large-scale storage batteries called "Mega Power," manufactured by PowerX, have been introduced to aim for stable supply of renewable energy. The implemented AI control system "Think EMXS" efficiently coordinates solar power generation and battery storage, supporting demand-supply adjustments and optimal trading in the market. This allows for real-time management of power surplus and shortages, maximizing the utilization of renewable energy. In the future, similar systems will be deployed in large-scale power plants with outputs of over 10MW, contributing to the spread of renewable energy and stable power supply.

On July 7, Pacific Consultants began a demonstration experiment as part of the "Yahagigawa and Toyokawa Carbon Neutral Project" promoted by Aichi Prefecture, by installing blocks that incorporate solar power generation equipment into the levees of a retention basin. This experiment will verify whether it is possible to generate electricity using new "perovskite solar cells" without compromising the functionality of the levees. The duration of the experiment is until March 2026. It will also assess the effects of rain and wind, weed control effectiveness, and the risk of electric shock, aiming to establish safe and efficient maintenance management methods. If this technology is put into practical use, it is expected to promote the introduction of renewable energy by utilizing the spaces of water infrastructure such as levees, dams, and ponds. Additional benefits such as reduced weeding costs and strengthened levees are also anticipated. Retention basins temporarily store river water during floods and play an important role in disaster prevention. Through this project, Aichi Prefecture aims to realize the utilization of renewable energy and achieve carbon neutrality.

Hitachi Ltd. announced on July 10 that it has begun a new initiative aimed at decarbonizing the recycling business in collaboration with the recycling company "Hokkaido Eco Recycling System (HERS)" based in Tomakomai City, Hokkaido. Recycling plants consume a large amount of electricity, which has been a concern for environmental impact. In this project, the goal is to switch that electricity to renewable energy and reduce carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions. HERS plans to utilize power trading services starting in November 2024, sourcing 100% of its electricity from renewable energy. Additionally, by October 2025, it aims to install solar panels on the roof of its warehouse, expecting to reduce approximately 800 tons of CO₂ annually. Hitachi positions this initiative as a model for balancing a "circular economy" and "carbon neutrality" in the recycling business, taking charge of design and system development. The company intends to expand this approach to other industries, aiming to realize a sustainable society.

The major South Korean company "Hanwha Japan" (Minato Ward, Tokyo) has announced that it will donate solar power generation equipment to the new comprehensive gymnasium in Hyuga City, Miyazaki Prefecture. 〇 "Environmentally Friendly Power" for the New Gymnasium The comprehensive gymnasium in Hyuga City has been around for about 50 years and has issues related to aging and seismic resistance. The city is advancing the construction of a new gymnasium that can also serve as a disaster prevention base, but it faces challenges such as financial constraints and a declining population. In response, Hanwha Japan has decided to donate 32 solar power modules (totaling 13.12 kW), 2 power conditioners, and 1 hybrid storage system for the benefit of the community. This is expected to generate approximately 15,943 kWh of electricity annually (equivalent to about 4 to 5 average households). 〇 Useful in Times of Disaster! Active as an "Emergency Power Source" The donated solar power generation and storage batteries will primarily be used for the gymnasium's electricity, but in the event of a disaster, they will be utilized as an emergency power source to operate lights and equipment in evacuation shelters. Additionally, the gymnasium is planned to serve as a storage location for emergency supplies and a long-term evacuation site, becoming the "last bastion" for the community. The new gymnasium is scheduled to be completed by the fiscal year 2026.

i-Grid Solutions, a company based in Minato, Tokyo, that develops renewable energy businesses, announced on July 9 the launch of a new service called "Circulating Power," which shares electricity for companies that cannot install solar panels. The aim is to achieve both decarbonization and countermeasures against rising electricity costs simultaneously. The service supplies surplus renewable energy generated at solar power facilities operated by the company to facilities where it is difficult to install solar panels due to roof structures or location conditions. This allows companies to adopt renewable energy without the need for installation work, enabling them to start using the service in as little as two months. i-Grid has previously deployed on-site Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) at 1,226 facilities nationwide, leveraging this experience to circulate surplus electricity within the region. The electricity price is offered at a fixed rate, with options for price fixing for up to 20 years. This is expected to mitigate the risk of fluctuations in electricity prices due to external factors such as rising fuel costs and yen depreciation. According to a survey by the Agency for Natural Resources and Energy, electricity prices for businesses in the fiscal year 2023 have risen by about 1.3 times over the past decade. Japan's energy self-sufficiency rate is approximately 13%, which is low compared to major countries, making stable energy procurement a challenge.

〇Purpose and Method of the Survey Chiba University’s Institute of Environmental Studies and Energy Policy conducts this survey annually (this is the 19th year). Based on renewable energy facilities that are operational by the end of March 2024, we estimate the amount of electricity generation and heat supply if they operate at full capacity for one year. 〇Trends and Key Points Wind Power as a Growth Engine The growth rate has surpassed that of solar power for two consecutive periods, leading the expansion of renewable energy electricity nationwide. Increase in Sustainable Power Zones Slows While the number continues to rise, the growth rate compared to the previous year shows a declining trend. Regional Disparities Become Clear In 24 prefectures, the ratio of renewable energy exceeds 30%. Five prefectures, including Akita, exceed 50%, leading the way. Renewable Heat Hits a Ceiling Due to being outside the FIT framework, it remains a modest increase of +1.4%. 〇What Has Become Clear Over 20% of municipalities have achieved "100% self-sufficiency in electricity": The introduction of renewable energy in rural areas is steadily progressing. Structure Favoring Wind Power: There is significant potential for growth in offshore projects and others in the future. Next Challenges are Heat and Urban Areas: While electricity has grown, improving heat utilization and self-sufficiency rates in densely populated areas is key. Expansion of Municipal Roles: There is a demand for region-led renewable energy plans, grid development, and local production for local consumption models.