#Sustainability #Energy Efficiency #Japan #Tokyo #YKK AP

YKK AP Maintains S-Class Energy Efficiency Rating for a Decade

YKK AP Corporation, headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has proudly announced that it has been awarded the highest classification, S-Class, under the Energy Conservation Law's class evaluation system for businesses, administered by the Agency for Natural Resources and Energy, for the 2024 fiscal year. This achievement marks the 10th consecutive year since the inception of this evaluation system in 2016, exemplifying YKK AP's unwavering commitment to energy efficiency.

Overview of the Class Evaluation System

The class evaluation system categorizes businesses with a significant scale of energy use (specifically, those using more than 1,500 kiloliters of crude oil equivalent annually) into four classes: S, A, B, and C. The evaluation criteria consist of two primary benchmarks: a reduction of energy consumption per unit of production by an annual average of 1.0% over five years, and a corresponding benchmark target. In its latest report, YKK AP surpassed its reduction target remarkably, achieving a 2.1% decrease in energy consumption per unit.

Moreover, the company has committed to enhancing transparency by participating in the reporting system, improving public access to pertinent information on the Energy Agency's website.

Specific Efforts and Future Goals

Aligning with its vision of becoming a 'leading global company,' YKK AP has established its 'Evolution 2030' framework aimed at significant environmental contributions. One of the key initiatives targets an 80% reduction in CO2 emissions (compared to 2013 levels) by 2030, with an ultimate ambition of achieving carbon neutrality by 2040.

To realize these objectives, YKK AP has implemented a host of initiatives in 2024, including investing in the upgrade of manufacturing facilities, establishing smart factories, adopting energy management systems, converting to LED lighting, and enhancing roof insulation for factory buildings.

Additionally, the company is actively incorporating self-consumption solar energy systems, which are projected to reach a total generation capacity of 16,200 kW by the end of March 2025. YKK AP’s new office building, designed to leverage natural elements such as wind and sunlight, achieved the Zero Energy Building (ZEB) certification in October 2024.

The Significance of Sustainable Practices

YKK AP's consistent performance and proactive stance on energy efficiency not only strengthens its position in the market but also sets a benchmark for other companies in the industry. By contributing significantly to carbon reduction and committing to sustainable energy practices, YKK AP is not just focused on profit but is equally dedicated to nurturing our planet for future generations.

In summary, YKK AP's achievement of maintaining its S-Class energy efficiency status for a decade reflects its ongoing dedication to sustainable practices and innovation geared towards a carbon-neutral future. It showcases how businesses can lead by example, balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility.