What is Japan's first energy storage project?

In 2015, we started Japan's first demonstration project covering energy storage connected to the power grid in the Koshikishima, Satsumasendai City, Kagoshima. This project is still operating in a stable manner today. One feature of our grid energy storage system is that it utilizes reused batteries from EVs.

What is Kinokawa energy storage plant?

Kinokawa Energy Storage Plant has 64 lithium-ion storage battery containers installed within its premises. With a rated output of 48MW and a rated capacity of 113MWh *2, it has the largest scale *3 out of all energy storage plants currently operating within Japan and is the first to begin operation in ORIX’s energy storage plant business.

How is Japan's energy storage landscape changing?

Japan’s energy storage landscape is shifting, pushed by household demand, corporate ESG mandates, and domestic battery manufacturing. The residential lithium-ion market, projected to grow at a CAGR of 33.9% through 2030, remains one of the fastest-expanding segments.

Does Japan need energy storage?

With Japan targeting a 36-38% share of renewable energy in its generation mix by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2050, the government identified support for and promotion of energy storage as a key pillar of the Green Transformation Act announced in 2021.

What is Japan's energy storage policy?

As policy, technology, and decarbonization goals converge, Japan is positioning energy storage as a critical link between its climate targets and energy reliability. Japan’s energy storage policy is anchored by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), which outlined its ambitions in the 6th Strategic Energy Plan, adopted in 2021.

Why is Tokyo launching a virtual power plant?

The push is reinforced by Tokyo’s 2025 regulation requiring solar panels on new homes, and the launch of virtual power plant (VPP) programs—slated to begin in fiscal 2026—that will let households sell surplus energy to the grid.