#Carbon Neutrality #Japan #Solar Power #Tsukuba #Taiho Pharmaceutical

Taiho Pharmaceutical's Solar Power Initiative in Tsukuba

Taiho Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has made strides towards environmental responsibility by installing solar power facilities at its Tsukuba Research Institute in Ibaraki Prefecture. This new project is set to commence operations in October 2026 with the expectation of reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by about 185 tons annually.

This initiative aligns with the broader objectives of the Otsuka Group, to which Taiho Pharmaceutical belongs. As part of its commitment to reducing environmental impact, the Group has set a material goal focused on achieving carbon neutrality. Taiho has previously taken steps to incorporate CO2-free electricity in all its factories and research facilities, showcasing its dedication to sustainable energy practices.

Details of the Solar Power System

The solar power facility is equipped with 1,278 solar panels and is designed with a generating capacity of 350 kW. With this setup, it is projected to generate approximately 500 MWh of energy each year. The introduction of this renewable energy source is expected to significantly expand the use of self-generated electricity within the company.

Previous Carbon Reduction Initiatives

Taiho Pharmaceutical has a commendable track record in its commitment to sustainability. Significant efforts made in the past include:

• - Implementation of CO2-Free Electricity: As of September 2021, Taiho Pharmaceutical has transitioned all purchased electricity used in production activities to CO2-free energy sources, effectively eliminating carbon emissions from these operations.
• - Use of Green Power Certificates: Since 2020, Taiho Pharmaceutical, alongside four other companies in the Otsuka Group, has utilized Green Power Certificates to fully convert its office power consumption—amounting to approximately 12,500 MWh annually—to green energy.
• - Solar Power in Kitajima Factory: Following the Tsukuba site, Taiho plans to install solar panels at its Kitajima factory, expected to commence operations in February 2025 and generate about 4,400 MWh yearly, thus contributing to a CO2 reduction of approximately 1,880 tons.

Otsuka Group's Commitment to Carbon Neutrality

The Otsuka Group envisions achieving 'net zero' environmental load by 2050. Committed to the cause, it has established specific targets within its materiality framework, which includes goals such as a 50% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2028 compared to 2017 levels and generating 20% of its energy requirements from self-created renewable resources.

Through the ongoing installation of solar facilities and the promotion of renewable energy sources like CO2-free electricity, Taiho Pharmaceutical actively works towards meeting its mid-term goals for carbon neutrality, while maximizing energy efficiency across its operations. Taiho's recent efforts are a testament to its commitment to a sustainable future, and it plans to maintain this momentum in its push for environmental responsibility.

As Taiho Pharmaceutical continues its environmental strategy, it sets a strong example for other companies in the pharmaceutical industry and beyond, proving that sustainable practices can coexist with a thriving business model. With its ambitious carbon neutrality goals and innovative solar power implementations, Taiho is not just responding to environmental challenges—it is paving the way for a greener future.

This move underscores the pressing need for companies to adopt sustainable practices, especially in light of global climate change concerns. The solar power facility at the Tsukuba Research Institute will not only contribute to a cleaner environment but also inspire similar initiatives in the industry, showcasing that corporate responsibility and environmental stewardship are achievable and necessary for long-term success.