Tsunagaru Inc. Showcases Sapporo's Green Transformation on Media Tour

In November, Tsunagaru Inc., in collaboration with the City of Sapporo, organized a media tour for international journalists to offer them a firsthand look at the city’s groundbreaking initiatives in green transformation (GX). With ambitions to become Asia's leading hub for green energy and finance, Sapporo is making significant strides toward a more sustainable future.

The media tour commenced at the NIKKEI FORUM Global GX/Finance Conference on November 25, where Sapporo announced the creation of a public-private investment fund aimed at unlocking Hokkaido's renewable energy potential. The city is contributing 500 million yen to a fund that is set to raise 10 billion yen for investments in GX projects. Founding investors include Hokkaido Bank, Ltd. and North Pacific Bank, Ltd., who plan to launch the initiative in March 2026.

Within the framework of the “Team Sapporo-Hokkaido” consortium, Sapporo collaborates with various companies and organizations to develop a regional GX ecosystem. During the media tour from November 25 to 27, reporters were escorted to key ecosystem projects both within and beyond the city.

Among the highlights was the visit to the Air Water Hydrogen Station Sapporo Odori East, Hokkaido's first commercial hydrogen refueling station, which opened in April in the Chuo district. Operated by Air Water Inc., this station has the capability to refuel large electric vehicles like buses and trucks, contributing to the development of the city’s hydrogen model district.

Journalists also toured the Zero Emission Data Center ISHIKARI (ZED ISHIKARI), Japan's first 24/7 data center powered by carbon-free energy. Managed by Kyocera Communication Systems Co., the facility became operational in October 2024 and is powered by the nearby Ishikari Bay New Port offshore wind farm, along with its solar panels.

Sapporo leverages its favorable summer climate, abundant green spaces, and access to numerous tourist attractions to attract interest from investors and companies. Reporters met with staff from Sapporo’s Transnational Expansion and Partnership (STEP) organization, which provides support to foreign companies looking to establish a presence in the region. During their visit to STEP’s office in Singapore, they also interacted with representatives from an AI robotics firm.

Through GX initiatives and the use of local human resources, Tsunagaru Inc. connects Japan’s regional resources with the global market, actively contributing to the sustainable development of the local economy. This media tour serves to highlight not only efforts toward renewable energy but also the collaborative spirit of Sapporo, paving the way for a greener future.