#Japan #Renewable Energy #Keio University #Chiyoda, Tokyo #i-Grid Solutions

Collaborative Research Between i-Grid and Keio University on Energy Traceability

In a significant step toward addressing the increasing demand for renewable energy, i-Grid Solutions, based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has partnered with the Future Optical Network Open Research Center at Keio University. This collaboration aims to harness real-time data on surplus electricity generated from multiple power plants to create innovative services that enhance energy traceability.

Context and Objectives

As the movement toward achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 gains momentum, efforts to increase renewable energy generation are accelerating. The latest energy policy, the 7th Basic Energy Plan, outlines that renewable energy should constitute around 40% to 50% of the energy supply by 2040, with solar power expected to rise significantly. However, the challenge lies in integrating additional sustainable energy sources while addressing issues such as potential grid overload and mismatch between electricity demand and production.

One of the primary objectives of this research is to develop a sustainable matching system for electricity supply and demand, ensuring that real-time energy provision aligns with local consumption needs. By utilizing localized supply management, the research aims to create mechanisms that effectively utilize surplus electricity and promote its availability within communities, which is crucial for achieving a decarbonized society.

Building a New Business Model

i-Grid has established itself as a leader in providing on-site solar energy systems in Japan, with the highest number of facilities utilizing the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) model. This system allows facilities to utilize surplus energy generated from on-site solar panels effectively and distribute any excess power to other sites.

The collaboration also leverages the expertise of Professor Naoki Yamanaka, the director of the Future Optical Network Open Research Center. He is at the forefront of developing energy virtual network operations (EVNO), which involves separating the existing power grid into matching supply and demand systems. This innovative approach better matches energy producers with consumers, optimizing power distribution and balancing supply costs.

The Scope of Joint Research

The project titled “Research on Surplus Electricity Traceability” focuses on examining how surplus electricity data can be effectively utilized. The joint effort aims to connect generation locations with consumption points, thus enabling virtual matching of surplus electricity. This can facilitate energy sharing across different facilities or within local communities, resulting in enhanced local energy production and consumption.

Additionally, the research will explore energy consumption time-shifting techniques using battery storage and EV chargers to maximize the utilization of renewable energy in real-time.

Through this collaborative effort, both organizations aspire to contribute to a global green society while promoting local renewable energy adoption and advancing efforts toward decarbonization.

Research Timeline

The research period is set from April 1, 2025, to June 30, 2028.

About i-Grid Solutions

i-Grid Solutions has pioneered the onsite PPA business model, allowing businesses, particularly in the retail and logistics sectors, to implement solar power systems with no upfront costs. With a vast cumulative achievement of 1,130 facilities and a generation capacity of 271 MW, i-Grid aims to lead the industry towards achieving a Virtual Power Plant (VPP). The company employs digital technologies to enhance renewable energy production and promotes strategies like surplus electricity circulation schemes to further accelerate the transition to a carbon-neutral society.

About Keio University's Future Optical Network Open Research Center

Located in Shin-Kawasaki, this center serves as a hub for smart society initiatives focused on SDGs, offering a collaborative platform for research on optical network technologies. By fostering open innovation, the center aims to create advanced applications and expand research cooperation with various institutions, including those emerging from the university itself.

As the focus on sustainable energy grows, both i-Grid and Keio University’s collaborative research will be key in shaping a sustainable future, ultimately leading to broad-scale renewable energy proliferation and a net-zero society.