#Japan #Renewable Energy #Setagaya, Tokyo #Updater #Nature-Friendly

UPDATER's Vision for Nature-Friendly Energy

UPDATER, headquartered in Setagaya, Tokyo, has embarked on an ambitious initiative called "Coexisting Renewable Energy Project 10," aiming to create ten nature-friendly power plants across Japan by the fiscal year 2028. This project is triggered by the recognition of the first "Nature Coexistence Site" in Japan on September 16, 2025, which includes an agricultural solar sharing facility in Toyooka City, Hyogo Prefecture. This recognition highlights the harmony of renewable energy, agriculture, and biodiversity.

The primary goal of this project is to demonstrate that renewable energy practices can coexist with the natural environment by leveraging the agricultural methods bespoke to the region. This also relies on UPDATER's established partnerships with various stakeholders committed to sustainability, including the innovative programs developed through "Minna Denryoku" and "Minna Daichi."

Background of the Project

The Ministry of the Environment's designation of the site in Toyooka City as a Nature Coexistence Site reflects successful collaborations promoting biodiversity. The area encompasses an 8.85 ha farm using non-chemical farming methods known as "Kounotori Cultivation Method." This environmental recognition is a milestone as it marks Japan's first instance where a solar-powered agricultural site has been accredited as a Nature Coexistence Site. UPDATER jointly applied for this certification since they procure electricity from the designated facility, fostering a supportive relationship within the local power generation initiatives.

Notably, even after implementing the power generation system, continued sightings of the Japanese crane, a special natural monument, have been documented, proving that renewable energy can indeed support biodiversity. Soil analysis conducted by UPDATER's "Minna Daichi" revealed a substantial presence of Glomus species arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi that coexist with rice roots. Furthermore, carbon retention levels measured at 10% to 26% higher than regional standards substantiate the effectiveness of the ongoing initiatives in soil ecosystem preservation and climate change mitigation.

Amid rising concerns that renewable energy installations might lead to environmental destruction, UPDATER views this certification as a pioneering method for integrating energy production with local ecosystems. The company sees this occasion as a crucial turning point, enhancing societal acceptance and sustainability by intertwining the values of coexistence in the promotion of renewable energy.

The Coexisting Renewable Energy Project 10

Positioning the Toyooka project as a primary case study, UPDATER is committed to developing at least ten more nature-friendly power generation sites across Japan by 2028. The project will unfold as a national endeavor, aiming to harmonize renewable energy with local agricultural practices and cultural values, thus ensuring environmental sustainability.

UPDATER will spearhead this initiative through collaborations with existing partners and potential stakeholders, providing consultation and support tailored to integrate the concept of coexistence with nature into renewable energy projects. The goal is to craft an advanced operational model that encourages the alignment of energy production with ecological and regional interactions.

Recent Collaborative Efforts

Recently, UPDATER joined forces with Green System Corporation, which operates solar-powered agricultural sites in Tochigi and Fukushima Prefectures. They implemented biodiversity surveys at two solar farmland facilities. The synergy of crops and energy production has been a focal point, demonstrating an innovative approach to both stabilize agricultural operations and generate renewable income.

In these endeavors, the agricultural sites maintained organic practices without employing harmful chemicals, thereby fostering a distinct ecosystem harmonious with local wildlife. The biodiversity surveys yielded symbolic outcomes, with the sightings of the endangered "Tagame" (water scorpion) and "Tokyo Dwarf Frog," demonstrating the compatibility of renewable energy with farming and biodiversity.

Green System Corporation's meticulous agricultural practices have drawn attention and interest from major corporate investments. Such efficient methodologies are increasingly recognized as case studies that create new social and economic values through coexistence with the environment. UPDATER plans to continue working closely with Green System Corporation to expand these innovative energy collaborations.

About UPDATER

Founded on May 25, 2011, UPDATER transitioned from Minna Denryoku, rebranding itself as a social update company. It provides services centered on traceability and transparency for both businesses and individuals, focusing on solving societal challenges. Its innovations include the world's first commercialization of electricity traceability through patented blockchain technology, alongside projects aimed at enhancing biodiversity and promoting carbon neutrality.

For more details about UPDATER and its initiatives, please visit UPDATER's corporate website.

Contact Information

For media inquiries:
UPDATER Strategic Public Relations Team
Toshima & Ueda
Tel: 03-6805-2228 (Weekdays 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM)
E-mail: [email protected]