EcoFlow Powers the Decarbonized Nebuta at Aomori Nebuta Festival

EcoFlow Technology Japan Co., Ltd. has taken a significant step towards sustainability by supporting the decarbonized nebuta at the Aomori Nebuta Festival. This collaboration, part of the company's CSR activities, involves providing portable power solutions to the Hitachi Union Nebuta Committee, which operates the large nebuta floats during the festival.

Since 2022, the decarbonized nebuta has been illuminated using EcoFlow's portable power solutions. This year marks the fourth consecutive year of their support for the nebuta, making it a critical component in the night-time events of the festival.

To power the nebuta, approximately 2,000 LED bulbs are installed within the float, necessitating the use of eight EcoFlow portable power stations that are mounted on a cart. Prior to the transition to these portable units, diesel generators were responsible for powering the decorations. With this shift, the nebuta now operates with zero CO₂ emissions during the festival, significantly enhancing its environmental impact.

For instance, in 2019, during the festival's six-day duration, operations that relied on diesel power emitted around 170 kg of CO₂. With the recent transition to portable power, the weight of the nebuta has also been reduced by approximately 700 kg, estimating the traditional generator's weight at about one ton.

Historical Significance of Hitachi and Aomori Nebuta Festival

Since 1965, Hitachi has participated in the Aomori Nebuta Festival, marking the event's 59th iteration this year. Throughout its long history, the Hitachi Union Nebuta Committee has actively contributed to the growth of the festival, a designated important intangible cultural asset of Japan, by evolving with the times and embracing new challenges.

In addition to striving for top awards each year, Hitachi has continuously innovated in the design and performance of their nebuta. One of their remarkable initiatives includes reducing the environmental footprint of the festival with the introduction of the decarbonized nebuta, which is the first of its kind to utilize portable power solutions. EcoFlow joined in this mission in 2022 by providing the necessary power supply.

Hitachi's ongoing commitment to the environment emphasizes creating new value for a festival deeply rooted in the local community. Alongside this, a significant transition took place last year with the passing of creative responsibilities from renowned nebuta artist Renmei Kitamura to his son Shunichi Kitamura. This new generation continues to honor tradition while engaging residents and tourists alike.

The theme for the 2026 procession will feature “Separation Under the Cherry Blossoms of Yoshinoyama,” with designs created by Shunichi Kitamura.

The Impact of Decarbonized Nebuta on the Festival

The Aomori Nebuta Festival’s judging criteria splits into three main elements: the nebuta itself, the music accompanying it, and the performance of the dancers. Recently, Hitachi has focused on improving the running quality and overall coherence of the festival.

Traditionally, the nebuta utilized diesel generators to power its internal lighting, which introduced noise and unpleasant fumes, detracting from the overall experience. Since the introduction of EcoFlow's portable power units, these disturbances have ceased, enabling performers to operate in an improved environment while making the sounds of the festival more distinct and enjoyable for attendees.

Moreover, the transition to portable power has contributed to a significant weight reduction of approximately 700 kg for the nebuta, making it easier for the team to manage.