TBS Group Celebrates Launch of Hydrogen Heat Source Equipment in Akasaka

On May 12, 2026, Akasaka Heat Supply Co., established in Tokyo's Minato Ward, conducted the ceremonial opening of its new hydrogen heat source facility. This initiative marks the first commercial use of green hydrogen by a private thermal supply operator in the heart of Tokyo.

The company provides heating, cooling, and electricity to various buildings in the Akasaka 5-chome area. As part of their commitment to sustainability, they updated their thermal supply equipment to incorporate hydrogen, recognizing its potential as a next-generation energy source. Starting in May 2026, the new facility will not only accept and store green hydrogen but also utilize it for power generation through fuel cells and heat supply via hydrogen-blended boilers.

During the ceremony, Ryujiro Abe, President of TBS Holdings, expressed the significance of this event, stating that the operational commencement of the hydrogen heat source facility represents a crucial step toward decarbonizing urban infrastructure. He highlighted the importance of safety and stable supply while accumulating knowledge to continuously communicate the significance of these green energy initiatives to society.

Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike also shared her thoughts, emphasizing hydrogen's role as a game-changer for stable energy supply and decarbonization, especially in light of today’s fossil fuel supply uncertainties. She reiterated the metropolitan government's commitment to fostering a hydrogen society by implementing various initiatives centered around the three keywords: 'create,' 'transport,' and 'use.' Koike noted that this project is unprecedented in Tokyo, with the facility relying on green hydrogen sourced through a trial market initiated by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, which aims to increase demand for green hydrogen in the city.

Attendees were introduced to the safety aspects of hydrogen storage, including the use of hydrogen storage alloys that safely preserve hydrogen at low pressure. A connection was made via live broadcast to the hydrogen plant in Akasaka 5-chome, showcasing the facility's capability to generate electricity and thermal energy safely from green hydrogen.

The facility's pure hydrogen fuel cells operate without emitting CO₂ during electricity generation, providing power for air conditioning, lighting, and emergency backup for operations. The hydrogen generated is delivered through internal piping to hydrogen-blended flow-through boilers, which use a combination of hydrogen and city gas to produce steam, expecting to reduce CO₂ emissions by about 21% when compared to traditional city gas-only operations, with variations depending on operational conditions. Furthermore, the green hydrogen utilized will be transported regularly from Yamanashi Prefecture. The installation of this equipment was supported by a subsidy from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.

Masamasa Takagi, President of Akasaka Heat Supply Co., expressed his deep emotions on the commencement of full operations, reflecting on the journey since the initial project planning three years prior. He shared his aspiration to see hydrogen pipelines implemented in Akasaka, further evolving TBS's commitment to an increasingly sustainable future.

About Akasaka Heat Supply Co.

Akasaka Heat Supply Co. operates two underground plants that provide cold water, steam, and electricity to various buildings, including the TBS Broadcasting Center in the Akasaka 5-chome district. They have established a Business Continuity Plan (BCP) to ensure stable operations during large-scale disasters. The company's dedication to supporting the community and contributing to a decarbonized society through safe and reliable hydrogen energy use is unwavering. More information can be found at Akasaka Heat Supply.