Idemitsu's Milestone in Solar Energy with '0plan'
Idemitsu, officially known as 株式会社新出光, has recently made significant strides in promoting renewable energy solutions in Japan with their solar power purchasing agreement (PPA) model called '0plan'. This innovative method not only enables businesses to harness solar energy but does so without any initial investment. As of now, Idemitsu has installed its 158th system, surpassing a total capacity of 40 megawatts (MW) nationwide.
The latest installation took place at the Chiba Low-Temperature Center, managed by Air-Water Logistics Co., Ltd., headquartered in Sapporo, Hokkaido. The solar power generation capacity of the newly installed system is 347 kilowatts (kW), which allows for a portion of the electricity consumed at the facility to be replaced with carbon-free renewable energy. This transition is anticipated to reduce carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions by approximately 180 tons annually.
Since its launch in 2018, '0plan' has been a crucial part of the company's efforts to contribute to decarbonization. With this specific model, Idemitsu enables customers to rely on solar energy while eliminating the upfront costs typically associated with such installations, including maintenance and heat insulation measures.
What is '0plan'?
The '0plan' model operates on a unique premise: Idemitsu installs solar panels and carports at no charge on the roofs and parking lots of customer buildings, as well as any unused land. Notably, should any issues arise during operation, Idemitsu also handles all maintenance costs. Under this system, the electricity generated by the solar panels is consumed by the host facility, with Idemitsu billing them for the electricity supplied. This arrangement fosters a low-risk environment for businesses wishing to transition to renewable energy.
The ultimate goal of '0plan' is to not only assist individual customers in reducing their energy costs but also to lower the overall environmental impact of society by promoting the use of renewable energy resources.
Background on Air-Water Logistics Co., Ltd.
Air-Water Logistics Co., Ltd., the company collaborating with Idemitsu on this project, was established on May 12, 1962. Based in Sapporo, their commitment to sustainability aligns perfectly with the objectives of Idemitsu's '0plan.' The company is focused on providing logistical services that minimize environmental footprints, making them a perfect partner for this renewable initiative.
For more information about Idemitsu's '0plan,' including various case studies, you can visit their official
website.
As the world continues to face challenges regarding climate change and energy sustainability, Idemitsu's '0plan' stands as a testament to innovative thinking in renewable energy, representing a collaborative effort towards a greener future.