Tokyo Gas Engineering Solutions Launches Smart Multi Demand Response Service

Tokyo Gas Engineering Solutions (TGES), led by President Yasuhiro Konishi, has announced the initiation of a Demand Response (DR) service utilizing its innovative hybrid air conditioning system called Smart Multi. The service is scheduled to commence in March 2026, and an initial agreement has been signed to implement this service at Asahi Life Insurance Company and the Asahi Life Kawasaki Building.

With the increasing adoption of renewable energy, ensuring a stable balance in power supply and demand has become a pressing societal challenge. DR represents a strategy to adjust the consumption side of electricity demand, allowing for a more stable overall power usage across society. In line with the Energy Conservation Act, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry mandates regular reporting on the progress of DR initiatives undertaken by businesses.

TGES's service operates by remotely controlling the Smart Multi system to align with power supply and demand fluctuations without necessitating additional equipment or special operations, thereby maintaining comfortable air conditioning while contributing to demand response capacity. Specifically, during times of power shortages, it will prioritize operating the gas heat pump (GHP) as part of its 'Down DR' strategy, whereas during periods of surplus power, it will favor the electric heat pump (EHP) under the 'Up DR' strategy. This dual-pronged approach not only assists in balancing supply and demand but also enables businesses to earn rewards based on their DR performance.

The introduction of this DR service is a forward-thinking move by TGES to enhance the stability of the electric grid and reduce CO2 emissions. Through 'IGNITURE', its solutions brand, TGES is committed to enabling sustainable and smart operational practices for corporate clients. They aim to leverage the expertise gained through their business operations to offer various solutions that foster decarbonization, optimization, and resilience, thereby contributing to society's sustainable growth.

Furthermore, Tokyo Gas and TGES have established the 'IGNITURE' brand to extensively promote their solutions. Through these offerings, households, corporate clients, and community members will find it increasingly feasible to achieve both economic efficiency and a sustainable lifestyle characterized by enhanced decarbonization and resilience.

TGES will showcase the Smart Multi system at the HVAC&R JAPAN 2026 event scheduled from January 27 to 30, 2026, at Tokyo Big Sight, in collaboration with the Japan Gas Association, Osaka Gas Co., and Toho Gas Co.

In summary, the Demand Response service from TGES exemplifies a significant advancement in air conditioning technology, aiming to not only meet consumer needs but also to contribute positively to the environmental landscape. As society continues to grapple with energy challenges, innovations such as the Smart Multi system present promising solutions toward achieving sustainability and efficiency in energy consumption.

References
1. Smart Multi: A hybrid air conditioning system that combines gas heating (GHP) and electric cooling (EHP) into a single refrigerant cycle.
2. Demand Response: An initiative to stabilize the overall power supply-demand balance by reducing or increasing the electricity usage of consumer-side facilities.
3. Reward distribution applies to customers who have a supply contract with Tokyo Gas and is subject to a separate application for this service.