#Japan #decarbonization #Tokyo #EV Charging #Ubi Den

New Advances in EV Charging Infrastructure in Tokyo's Condominiums

As record-breaking heat continues to sweep across Tokyo this summer, the need for innovative solutions to promote a decarbonized society has never been more urgent. Ubi Den Inc. (headquartered in Minato, Tokyo, CEO: Norio Yamaguchi) has partnered with several organizations, including the Tokyo Environmental Public Corporation's Cool Net Tokyo and the Japan Automobile Dealers Association, Tokyo Division, to hold an electric vehicle (EV) test drive event for condominium residents.

Background of the Collaboration

Tokyo is striving towards a “Zero Emission Tokyo” vision, aiming for 100% of new passenger vehicles sold by 2030 to be non-gasoline powered. The city has implemented initiatives to promote the installation of charging facilities for zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs). However, about 70% of urban housing consists of multi-unit residences, many of which lack the infrastructure for residents to charge their EVs at home. To tackle this issue, the “ZEV Promotion Expansion Collaboration Project (Challenge ZEV 2030)” has been initiated, combining the strengths of various organizations to work towards this common goal.

• - Cool Net Tokyo: Promotes the spread of EV charging infrastructure subsidies and supports decarbonization initiatives.
• - Japan Automobile Dealers Association, Tokyo Division: Provides relevant information and sales promotion to condominium residents regarding EVs.
• - Ubi Den: Develops infrastructure through its EV charging service “WeCharge” tailored for condominiums.

A Groundbreaking Initiative for Existing Condominiums

The test drive event will be hosted at Gracia Park Hachioji Minamino, one of the largest existing condominiums in Tokyo, completed in 2000 with a total of 225 units. In June, the installation of EV charging points across all 274 parking spaces was completed, enabling a home charging environment similar to standalone houses. Implementing this initiative in existing condominiums posed challenges, including forming resident consensus; however, the maximum utilization of the city’s ZEV equipment installation subsidy facilitated the successful approval in the residents' general assembly. This achievement represents a significant step toward decarbonization driven by the collective will of the residents.

Event Details

Date & Time: September 6, 2025 (Saturday) from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Location: Gracia Park Hachioji Minamino, 4-25-1 Minamino, Hachioji, Tokyo

Participating Dealers: Toyota Mobility Tokyo, Honda Mobility Minami Kanto, Volvo Car Japan

Special Programs:

• - Consultation booths about subsidies from Cool Net Tokyo
• - Family-oriented decarbonization activities
• - Live demonstrations of EV charging with smart outlets

A New Model for EV Adoption in Condominiums

Traditionally, the adoption of EVs in condominiums has faced hurdles such as the cost of charging equipment installation and the need for resident agreement. However, the recent installation of charging infrastructure includes:
- Utilizing subsidies to alleviate infrastructure investment burdens
- Installing charging points in every parking spot for resident convenience
- Providing adequate information to alleviate residents' concerns about purchasing EVs

This initiative effectively creates a charging environment in condominiums that mirrors that of individual homes.

Future Developments

This installation case is viewed as a vital model for achieving Tokyo's 2030 decarbonization target, with potential for expansion to other regions within the city. Additionally, condominium asset value appreciation is attracting considerable attention from management associations and real estate sectors. The new collaborative initiatives led by both government and private sectors signify a promising step towards realizing a future where individuals can move freely using environmentally-friendly vehicles.

EV Charging Service: WeCharge

WeCharge allows residents to install one charging outlet per parking space, enabling ease of access for charging whenever needed. Users can complete authentication and billing through the WeCharge app, requiring just a smartphone to manage the entire process. This service ensures that residents can charge their EVs as effortlessly as those in standalone houses.

About Ubi Den Inc.

Ubi Den’s mission is to envision the future of electricity, creating an environment where individuals can freely use “their electricity” without concerns about location or environmental impact. They offer innovative services leveraging energy and technology, focusing on enhancing the electric vehicle charging landscape in the city.

Ubi Den Inc.
CEO: Norio Yamaguchi
Established: April 19, 2019
Headquarters: 1-14 Bizflex Azabujuban, 1-chome, Minato, Tokyo
Main Business: Management and operation of electric vehicle charging service “WeCharge”
Corporate Website: Ubi Den
WeCharge: WeCharge