#Japan #Nippon Chikudenchi #Digital Grid #Sun Village #Kasugai

Introduction

Japan Storage Battery Corporation (JSBC), led by President Shuichi Urushihara and based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has officially commenced operations of its first grid-connected battery facility in Kasugai City, Aichi Prefecture, in May of this year. This move represents a significant step towards achieving a sustainable and secure energy society.

About the Facility

The inaugural Kasugai Nishio Battery Plant is constructed in partnership with Sun Village Co., Ltd., an EPC contractor headquartered in Ashikaga, Tochigi Prefecture. The operational management of the facility is entrusted to Digital Grid Inc., an aggregator based in Minato, Tokyo. This battery facility aims to provide various market services, including power trading in wholesale, supply-demand adjustment, and capacity markets.

Understanding Grid-Connected Battery Systems

Grid-connected batteries are positioned within the power grid and are designed to support the stability of electrical systems, particularly in conjunction with renewable energy sources. Unlike traditional batteries that are typically deployed close to demand centers, grid-connected batteries play a crucial role in maintaining a consistent power supply across the network, especially in light of the fluctuations typically associated with renewable energy depending on weather conditions. The implementation of these systems is an essential national strategy to promote the adoption of renewable energy and stabilizes the power grid.

JSBC's Business Endeavors

Site Development and Project Management

Japan Storage Battery Corporation takes a comprehensive approach toward establishing energy storage facilities. The company is responsible for site selection suitable for battery deployment and manages all necessary arrangements with local utility companies. After identifying sites, JSBC also partners with optimal construction service providers and selects advanced battery solutions to ensure the successful implementation of reliable battery storage solutions.

Operations and Maintenance

Sustaining the long-term operation of these grid-connected batteries requires ongoing monitoring and compliance with statutory inspections. Maintaining an operational lifespan of over 20 years is critical to the success of these systems. JSBC leverages its accumulated operational expertise in collaboration with the most suitable partners to ensure a safe and efficient working environment for each facility.

New Market Development

To promote the long-term sustainability of the grid-connected battery industry, JSBC aims to establish a new market framework. This initiative seeks to create a welcoming environment for companies and investors to engage, contributing to the stable supply of energy in Japan through partnerships with numerous stakeholders.

Future Initiatives

With more than 70% of Japan's electricity generation reliant on fossil fuels, transitioning toward renewable energy sources is vital for fostering a sustainable society. JSBC aims to aid in meeting this objective through the proliferation of grid-connected battery systems, enhancing supply-demand coordination, and tackling associated challenges. Plans are already in place for 20 new battery facilities to be operational by the end of 2025, with a target of 80 facilities by 2026.

Emergency Preparedness

Grid-connected battery systems also serve as significant resources during power outages. By utilizing stored energy, these systems can provide power even in the event of an outage. The battery stations established across the country can function as emergency storage facilities capable of serving approximately 4,000 households with enough electricity for 2 to 3 days. JSBC is developing disaster preparedness agreements with various municipalities to promote wellness and comfort during potential crises, contributing to public safety.

Collaborating Companies

Sun Village Co., Ltd.

• - Representative: Tohji Mimura
• - Location: 351 Terakokucho, Ashikaga City, Tochigi
• - Business: Development of solar power and grid-connected battery facilities
• - Website: sunvillage-co-ltd.com

Digital Grid Inc.

• - Representative: Yusuke Toyoda, President & CEO
• - Location: 3F Akasaka Enosaka Building, 1-7-1 Akasaka, Minato, Tokyo
• - Founded: October 2017
• - Capital: 2,643 million yen as of January 2025
• - Employees: 75 as of February 2025
• - Business Overview: Operation of the Digital Grid Platform for electric power and environmental value trading, providing aggregation services for decentralized energy sources, and offering decarbonization-related learning content
• - Website: digitalgrid.com

Company Profile

• - Name: Japan Storage Battery Corporation
• - Established: July 29, 2024
• - Representative: Shuichi Urushihara, President
• - Headquarters: 13th Floor, Kasumigaseki Building, 3-2-5 Kasumigaseki, Chiyoda, Tokyo
• - Business: Grid-connected battery services
• - Website: nipponchikudenchi.co.jp