Completion of the First Grid-Connected Storage Facility by Tokugin Tomoni Link-Up
In a significant development for renewable energy in Japan, Tokugin Tomoni Link-Up (a subsidiary of Tokushima Taisho Bank) has successfully completed its grid-connected storage facility in Itano County, Tokushima Prefecture. This milestone was celebrated with a ceremony held on July 10, 2026, marking the project's official handover. This facility marks the first of its kind for the Shikoku local bank group.
The completion of this project is part of a broader initiative to stabilize the electricity grid in response to the increasing adoption of renewable energy. The project was executed by Green Energy & Company, which managed land acquisition, construction contracts, and more through its subsidiary, Green Energy Plus (GEP), utilizing storage battery systems developed by PowerX, a domestic Japanese manufacturer.
Completion Ceremony
The event commenced with a ribbon-cutting ceremony performed by representatives from various companies involved in the project, symbolizing the beginning of operations for the storage facility. Participants included notable figures such as the president of Tokushima Taisho Bank, Toyohiko Bandō, and the president of Green Energy & Company, Takafumi Suzué.
The second part of the event consisted of a business presentation, where project stakeholders gathered to discuss the pivotal role the facility would play in enhancing the utilization of renewable energy in the local community and stabilizing the electricity grid. It was emphasized during these discussions that this venture is not merely about profit; instead, it serves as a crucial step toward developing local infrastructure for a carbon-neutral society.
Vision for Sustainability
President Amano Yoshihiko of Tokugin Tomoni Link-Up commented on the project's significance, expressing gratitude toward Green Energy & Company for turning their vision into reality. He emphasized the inherent value of undertaking this initiative in Tokushima, collaborating with local partner companies to reinforce their commitment to regional development. The company aims to leverage the abundant renewable energy sources in Tokushima while contributing to the advancement of the Green Transformation (GX) agenda.
Similarly, president Suzué from Green Energy & Company praised Tokugin Tomoni Link-Up for taking the risk associated with venturing into this largely unproven sector. His company has developed over 5,000 renewable energy projects since its inception and recognized the challenge posed by surpluses of electricity that often go unused. The introduction of battery storage technology presents a critical opportunity to utilize this energy effectively.
As the CEO of Green Energy Plus, Hiroshi Hirano, highlighted, this project stands as a pioneering endeavor within the Shikoku region's local banking landscape—marking the first grid-connected storage facility business led entirely by local firms from land acquisition through to construction.
Future Prospects
Going forward, Green Energy & Company aims to further expand its involvement in grid-connected storage facilities, contributing to the stabilization of the electricity grid and the promotion of renewable energy in Japan. With over 9 facilities already operational and more than 20 planned for construction, the initiative is poised to make a significant impact on the road toward achieving a net-zero society.
The commitment shown by Tokugin Tomoni Link-Up and Green Energy & Company reflects a strong desire to foster collaboration between private enterprises and local government in tackling the challenges posed by climate change and energy sustainability. This project is only the beginning of a concerted effort to ensure that Tokushima becomes a leader in green energy solutions.