#Japan #Tokyo #Green Hydrogen #Yamanashi Model

Launch of Tokyo's First Green Hydrogen Production Facility

On October 23, 2023, Yamanashi Prefecture officially commenced production at the "Keihin Island Green Hydrogen Production Facility" located in Ota City, Tokyo. This facility has installed Japan's first "Yamanashi Model P2G System," which focuses on efficient designs suitable for small urban spaces. With a hydrogen production capacity of up to 120 Nm³/h, this innovative system underscores a commitment to local production and consumption of hydrogen in the heart of Tokyo.

The establishment of this production facility is part of a collaboration initiated through a basic agreement signed between Tokyo and Yamanashi Prefecture on promoting the use of green hydrogen back in October 2022. To mark the opening, a ceremony was held on-site with prominent figures such as Yamanashi Governor Kotaro Nagasaki, Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike, and Ota City Mayor Akimasa Suzuki participating in a symbolic ribbon-cutting event. The presence of these leaders highlights the importance of this initiative in fostering a sustainable energy network in urban settings.

Key Statements from the Inauguration Ceremony

Yuriko Koike, Governor of Tokyo

Governor Koike emphasized the urgency of addressing the climate crisis, especially in the wake of record-high temperatures observed this summer. She pointed out the chaotic international situation regarding energy and the crucial role of green hydrogen in creating a stable urban model that balances decarbonization and energy security. Koike noted, "The initial phase of green hydrogen production in Tokyo, particularly in Ota Ward, marks a new chapter as we collaborate closely with Yamanashi Prefecture. Our joint technological advancements have enabled us to manufacture hydrogen in this densely populated area."

She also mentioned plans to expand production capabilities significantly, aiming to triple the current hydrogen output by 2027, catering to diverse sectors such as mobility and cosmetics.

Kotaro Nagasaki, Governor of Yamanashi

Governor Nagasaki expressed his delight at launching the hydrogen production using the Yamanashi Model P2G system at this facility. His remarks highlighted the cutting-edge technology incorporated in this small-scale, packaged system that fits urban environments. He asserted, "As one of the leading hydrogen-utilizing cities globally, Tokyo's partnership with Yamanashi, which possesses advanced P2G technology, positions us at the forefront of the international hydrogen landscape."

Nagasaki vowed to continue promoting hydrogen utilization and to work alongside Tokyo on carbon-neutral endeavors.

Akimasa Suzuki, Mayor of Ota

Mayor Suzuki referred to the establishment of the green hydrogen facility as a significant milestone in realizing a decarbonized society. He expressed his confidence that this achievement would foster new values across society and committed to closely collaborating with various stakeholders, including Tokyo and other entities, to harmonize industry and environmental considerations moving forward.

Understanding the Yamanashi Model P2G System

The Yamanashi Model P2G system, developed under the Green Innovation Fund project by NEDO, features a large-scale PEM (Proton Exchange Membrane) type water electrolysis system. By utilizing renewable energy to split water into hydrogen without emitting carbon dioxide, it aims to accelerate the decarbonization of industries by providing eco-friendly energy sources.

As this initiative unfolds, the Yamanashi P2G system promises to become a beacon of sustainable energy production, contributing significantly to both local and broader hydrogen economies, further propelling Tokyo and Yamanashi toward a greener future.