UPDATER Expands Renewable Energy Offering to Hokkaido and Hokuriku Regions

UPDATER, a pioneering company headquartered in Setagaya, Tokyo, is set to extend its personal renewable energy retail service, "Minna Denryoku," to the Hokkaido and Hokuriku regions effective November 1, 2025. This move comes as part of the company's initiative to provide 100% renewable energy to nearly all regions in Japan, excluding Okinawa and some remote islands.

Background of the Expansion

Since the launch of "Minna Denryoku" in April 2016, the service has gradually expanded across Japan. Initially offered in the Kanto area, it expanded to include the Kansai region in March 2018, followed by Tohoku, Chubu, and Kyushu in July of the same year, and later reached the Chugoku and Shikoku regions in November 2019. As of now, the service operates in seven areas.

The decision to expand into Hokkaido, which has a new power share of around 20% and a high interest in renewable energy, was influenced by a lack of robust local sales channels, prompting efforts to establish a comprehensive support structure for the launch. On the other hand, the Hokuriku area, which boasts a renewable energy ratio of 37.1% as of 2024, was chosen for its strategic importance; UPDATER carefully monitored demand trends before deciding to introduce services in this region.

By expanding its service area to nearly all of Japan (excluding some remote islands and Okinawa), UPDATER intends to amplify its commitment to providing secure and safe electricity and to deliver options that coexist with nature and local communities.

Innovative Service Offerings

The service will be available starting November 1, 2025, covering the Hokkaido and Hokuriku regions (excluding some hard-to-service areas). Various plans will be offered, including the Premium 100 Plan, artist collaboration plans, and the Epos Plan. Interested customers can apply online through the dedicated application link.

"Minna Denryoku" sets itself apart by ensuring that the electricity supplied is truly 100% renewable. Utilizing a diverse mix of power sources from various regions, UPDATER prioritizes procurement from power plants that have a low environmental impact and receive community support, thus balancing the supply-demand dynamics while enhancing environmental value.

Unlike other services, which might add environmental value post-factum through certificates, "Minna Denryoku" focuses on genuinely renewable electricity, meaning that the energy supplied is entirely generated from renewable resources at the production stage.

Future Outlook

With this nationwide expansion, UPDATER has established a substantial foundation for renewable energy supply aimed at individual consumers. The company plans to strengthen collaboration with local power producers and municipalities to develop energy sources suited to regional characteristics. They aim to secure about 700 contracts in Hokkaido and 300 in Hokuriku in their first year, which is expected to result in an annual reduction of approximately 1,000 tons of CO₂ emissions.

The commitment is not solely to cut emissions but to bolster local economies while creating environmental value, ensuring that the quality of renewable energy remains high.

As it stands, "Minna Denryoku" sources 100% renewable electricity from facilities across 46 prefectures in Japan, except for Okinawa. Customers can contribute to supporting power plants and projects without any additional burden on their electricity bills, as UPDATER covers these costs. This aligns with their broader goal of promoting transparency and sustainability in energy consumption.

Company Background

On October 1, 2021, UPDATER rebranded from Minna Denryoku, continuing its mission to solve social issues through transparency and traceability in service offerings. The company's portfolio includes various initiatives aimed at well-being and biodiversity, including the pioneering decarbonization initiative, "Minna Denryoku," which is the world's first commercial power traceability service.

With accolades including the Prime Minister Award at the 4th Japan SDGs Award and recognition as a CDP-certified renewable energy provider, UPDATER positions itself as a leader in sustainable energy solutions. Their corporate vision emphasizes environmental stewardship, community collaboration, and innovative approaches to energy consumption.

For more information, please refer to UPDATER's official website at updater.co.jp.