#Japan #Setagaya #Updater #JirijiriReuse

Introducing Japan's First Urban Reuse Solar Power Plant

In an inspiring development for renewable energy in Tokyo, UPDATER, a company based in Setagaya, has officially named its new urban solar power plant the 'Jirijiri Reuse Power Station.' Built atop the site of a former school pool at the recently renovated HOME/WORK VILLAGE, this innovative facility represents a sustainable fusion of past and present, symbolizing a commitment to green energy.

A Collaborative Naming Initiative

The name 'Jirijiri,' which alludes to both the local geographical area of池尻 (Ikejiri) and the sun's rays, was chosen from approximately 40 submissions from fifth graders at a nearby elementary school. The unveiling ceremony was led by Setagaya Mayor Nobuto Hosaka on October 8, 2025, highlighting the power of community engagement in sustainable initiatives. During the event, the award-winning student, Maki Itoh, expressed her thoughts, linking the area's name to the intensity of the sunlight.

Utilizing Recycled Panels for Sustainability

What makes the Jirijiri Reuse Power Station groundbreaking is its utilization of recycled solar panels that were previously used in commercial facilities across the Tokyo metropolitan area. This practice not only mitigates carbon emissions typically associated with manufacturing and disposal but also champions resource recycling. By repurposing both the location and the materials, the project marks a significant step towards sustainable urban development.

This facility is more than just a power source; it embodies a new model for urban renewable energy that incorporates education on sustainability as it will serve as an educational hub in the future.

Empowering Local Residents

The power station offers a cloud-based electricity service called 'Pipa,' allowing around 50 local households to become power producers. Residents can subscribe and benefit from the electricity generated by the panels at a fixed price. This initiative also presents a fantastic example of 'locally produced, locally consumed' energy, allowing electricity generated within Setagaya to be used by its own residents.

With the Jirijiri power plant, the community can truly take part in the generation and consumption cycle, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility towards renewable energy.

Overview of the Power Plant

• - Name: Jirijiri Reuse Power Station
• - Location: 2-4 Ikejiri, Setagaya, Tokyo, on the rooftop of HOME/WORK VILLAGE (former Ikegiri Junior High School)
• - Construction Period: June 26, 2025 - September 30, 2025
• - Construction Company: UNILEAD Inc.
• - Power Output: 55kWdc
• - Equipment: 220 domestically produced recycled solar panels from previous commercial uses
• - Service: Monthly subscription through the cloud-based service 'Pipa'
• - Expected Start: November 2025
• - Price Range: Approximately 1,600 – 2,000 yen per month

A Future-Oriented Vision

This project epitomizes Japan's first urban reuse solar plant, featuring the innovative use of decommissioned school facilities, recycled panels, and a robust local energy consumption model. As it prepares to start operations, UPDATER aims to explore further educational opportunities, maximizing the plant's utility for community engagement and social benefit.

By leading the way with sustainable practices, the Jirijiri Reuse Power Station hopes to set a precedent not just in Setagaya, but across urban landscapes in Japan, forging a greener path for future generations.

For more details, visit UPDATER's official site.