Exploring Solar Sharing and Cattle Raising in Fukushima's Abandoned Farmlands

In the heart of Fukushima, a pioneering initiative combines renewable energy with sustainable agriculture. Starting from August 19, 2025, UPDATER, a socially-conscious company based in Setagaya, Tokyo, will introduce its latest project as part of its cloud-based solar power platform, 'Peepa.' This initiative focuses on utilizing abandoned farmland to raise cattle through a method known as solar sharing, in collaboration with local energy provider, 'Nibonmatsu Local Energy.'

The Concept of Solar Sharing

'Peepa' is a subscription service that allows individuals to contract remote solar panel sections, generating electricity that can be utilized in their homes. This service is an excellent option for those who are unable to install solar panels, such as apartment dwellers, making it easier to transition to renewable energy living.

About the New Initiative

The solar sharing project on abandoned farmland involves repurposing land previously used for pear farming but now neglected due to a lack of management. After the landowner retired, local farmers proposed a solution: combining solar energy production with cattle grazing. This initiative aims to prevent further land degradation while maximizing land use efficiency.

Kendo Yoshiko, the founder of Nibonmatsu Local Energy and a dedicated organic farmer since 2006, saw her farming business disrupted due to the Fukushima nuclear disaster. Following various roles in the agriculture sector and renewable energy, she founded the solar initiative, integrating solar panels on approximately six hectares of abandoned land into her sustainable farming practice, ultimately enhancing land-use efficiency and promoting natural energy.

The Role of Solar Panels in Crop Cultivation

Solar panels serve a critical function in agriculture. They shield crops from excessive direct sunlight, alleviating heat stress and preventing damage, especially during the scorching summer months. For instance, under these solar panels, crops such as perilla (shiso) thrive, benefiting from the shaded environment that promotes safety for workers during the drying processes. Thus, the cultivation can yield products high in essential amino acids, like perilla oil, a growing favorite among consumers.

Coexistence of Renewable Energy and Grazing Cattle

In this venture, cattle are grazed in a manner that utilizes the shade offered by the solar panels, creating a sustainable ecosystem. The grass grown in the shade feeds the cattle, effectively establishing a cycle of energy and food production. This unique approach not only enhances the health and productivity of the livestock but also contributes to sustainable agricultural practices. Cattle can avoid harsh sunlight, reducing the risk of heat stress, which ultimately contributes to their overall well-being.

Kendo Yoshiko emphasizes that farmers' roles now extend beyond mere food production; they also contribute significantly to energy production. The concept of placing solar panels over fields to generate energy is becoming increasingly accepted, especially after significant endorsements such as the Vatican's decision to power its energy needs entirely through solar sharing projects.

When discussing 'Peepa,' she notes that this service significantly differs from traditional solar solutions. 'This is a direct-to-consumer electricity system,' she says, emphasizing that the generated electricity is provided directly to users without mixing it with grid electricity, ensuring that users get fresh, renewable energy.

Features of the Peepa Service

The Peepa service continues the company’s commitment to making renewable energy accessible:

- No initial costs or construction required
- Web-based application completed in minutes
- Substantial cost benefits from surplus energy pricing based on market rates

Looking Forward

With an increasing demand for renewable energy and a shift towards transparency regarding energy sources, Peepa enables users to connect with the origins of their energy. This innovative model not only encourages renewable energy usage but also fosters relationships between energy producers and consumers, promoting community engagement in sustainable practices.
UPDATER remains dedicated to expanding Peepa's availability across all regions, striving to create a future where sustainable living is accessible to everyone.

About UPDATER

Established on October 1, 2021, UPDATER aims to facilitate social change through innovative energy solutions. By integrating blockchain technology into its operations, the company has pioneered electricity traceability and won numerous accolades for its contributions to renewable energy.

The localized beef raised alongside the solar energy production offers a holistic return to problematic farmland, and the community anticipates engaging with the farm in future endeavors. As this project progresses, it serves as a beacon of hope and innovation for agriculture and energy sectors alike.