Nippon Steel Kowa Real Estate to Implement WeCharge Smart Outlets in New Resident Projects

Introduction of WeCharge Smart Outlets in New Residential Project

Nippon Steel Kowa Real Estate has made a significant move by partnering with Ubi Den Corporation to implement WeCharge smart outlets in their newest residential offering, "Livio City Kokura Nakai West Court," located in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka Prefecture. This marks the first venture into integrating WeCharge technology within a newly built condominium in Japan.

As the number of electric vehicles (EVs) in Japan has surged by 2.2 times over the last five years, the need for accessible charging solutions in residential areas has become paramount. The new residential complex will feature dedicated 200V smart outlets in the parking area, providing residents with a convenient means to charge their EVs at any time, similar to the experience of homeowners.

Key Features and Benefits of WeCharge Implementation

1. Freedom of Charging Anytime

Each parking space will be equipped with its own smart outlet, allowing residents to charge their vehicles 24/7, eliminating the inconvenient trips to gas or public charging stations.

2. Zero Electric Bill Burden for the Management Committee

WeCharge operates on a separate contractual setup that covers the electrical costs for the EV charging infrastructure, relieving the condominium management from any additional electricity expenses.

3. Cost Savings Compared to Gasoline

Using WeCharge technology allows users to enjoy fuel expenses that are 40% lower compared to traditional gasoline costs, promoting economic and environmentally friendly choices for residents.

4. Cost-Effective Equipment

The implementation of simple smart outlets minimizes initial setup costs. Centralized management of the WeCharge system also aids in flattening the peak charging times, optimizing both equipment and electricity costs for the entire complex.

5. Future-Ready Power Services

With compatibility to connect with power grids, WeCharge enables the utilization of renewable energy sources, adapting to upcoming changes in electrical services and offerings.

6. Pay-Per-Use Model

Users can choose a payment plan tailored to their lifestyle, paying only for the energy they consume based on a metered kWh basis.

7. Year-Round Customer Support

Access to comprehensive customer support through the WeCharge app and website ensures that residents can address any EV charging inquiries anytime.

Overview of the Property and EV Charging Facilities

- Property Name: Livio City Kokura Nakai West Court
- Location: 2-24 Nakai 4-chome, Kokura Kita Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
- Total Units: 116
- Parking Availability: 149 parking spaces within premises (flat parking)
- Expected Completion: Late June 2025
- Expected Handover: Late July 2025
- EV Charging Stations: 7 outlets (3kW output, rated 200V/20A plugs)
- Developers: Nippon Steel Kowa Real Estate and Haseko Real Estate
- Property Website: Livio City Kokura Nakai

Growth of the EV Market and Demand for Charging in Condominiums

The Japanese government aims to achieve 100% electric vehicle sales for new cars by 2035. The number of EVs has ballooned to 550,000 units in 2023 alone. A recent survey conducted by Nissan revealed that 74.4% of condominium residents believe that having EV chargers in their buildings would enhance their interest in purchasing EVs. Alarmingly, 52.2% of respondents stated they had reconsidered buying an EV due to the lack of home charging options.

In response to these findings, the government has ramped up its charging infrastructure targets from 150,000 to 300,000 by 2030, with a significant portion designated for multi-unit residential properties. WeCharge stands at the forefront of facilitating this necessary infrastructure, providing condominium residents with the same freedom of EV choice that homeowners enjoy.

About Ubi Den Corporation

Emphasizing the vision of "Redefining the Future of Electricity," Ubi Den Corporation aims to create a seamless energy environment that allows individuals to utilize "their own electricity" freely and conveniently, everywhere. They are innovating at the intersection of energy and technology, providing revolutionary services for EV charging.