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Call for Startups: Utilizing Waste Heat from Data Centers

Tokyo's bustling urban landscape is facing a significant environmental challenge. The phenomenon of heat islands, exacerbated by dense buildings and the increasing presence of data centers, is contributing to higher temperatures in the city. With 24/7 operation of ICT equipment, it is essential to address the growing concern about surplus waste heat generated from these facilities.

To combat this issue, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government has launched an initiative aimed at harnessing this unused heat through innovative ideas and technologies. They are seeking startups with solutions and data center operators willing to engage in practical collaboration. This initiative will facilitate demonstration projects, promoting the effective utilization of waste heat and improving the reliability of associated technologies.

Purpose of the Initiative

This program aims to connect innovative startups that possess new ideas or technologies for utilizing waste heat from data centers with operators that manage these facilities. By fostering collaboration through demonstration projects and proofs of concept (PoC), the initiative seeks to enhance the reliability of technologies and products aimed at repurposing waste heat and ultimately facilitating their integration into society.

Structure of the Initiative

1. Startups
- Act as the primary entity for conducting demonstrations, providing technology, and reporting results.

2. Data Center Operators
- Offer supportive environments for demonstrations and collaborate in practical implementations.

3. Implementation by Deloitte Tohmatsu LLC
- Responsible for organizing and managing cooperative projects, offering support, and publicizing the initiative.

Target Participants

1. Startups
- Must have technologies or products relevant to the effective utilization of waste heat and aim to partner with data center operators for social implementation.

2. Data Center Operators
- Should primarily operate data centers within Tokyo and agree to cooperate with startups on waste heat utilization demonstrations.

Selection Process

• - Both startups and data center operators will be invited to apply through an open call. Their applications will undergo a thorough document review and matching process to create cooperative projects.
• - Each cooperative project will have its business plan evaluated, with two projects selected for support.
• - The collaboration period extends until the end of the fiscal year 2029.
• - Startups selected will receive funding up to 20 million yen (tax included) from Tokyo to cover demonstration costs, excluding application-related expenses.

Application Period

The application window will be from June 9, 2025, to July 10, 2025, until 5 PM.

Schedule

• - June 9, 2025: Application acceptance opens
• - July 10, 2025: Application deadline
• - Mid-July 2025: Document verification
• - Late July 2025: Matching process
• - Mid-August 2025: Formation of cooperative projects
• - Mid-September 2025: Evaluation committee convenes, projects selected
• - March 2026: Mid-term results report
• - March 2027: Final results report

Guidelines

For detailed information regarding the application and selection requirements for startups and data center operators, please visit the official project website: https://dc-heat-reuse.tokyo.

For inquiries, contact the Tokyo Bureau of the Environment, Climate Change Management Department at 03-5388-3524.