#Japan #Air Conditioning #heatstroke prevention #Hino #Hino City

Hino City’s New Initiative for Summer Heat Relief

As temperatures continue to rise, Hino City is stepping up its efforts to protect its residents from heatstroke, a condition that poses an increasing risk during scorching summers. Starting from May 7, the city is implementing a subsidy program aimed at assisting low-income families with the purchase and installation of air-conditioning units, with a maximum grant of ¥120,000. This initiative is in response to the growing health risks associated with extreme heat, which has become alarmingly common across the region.

Overview of the Subsidy Program

The subsidy, officially called the Hino City Air Conditioning Purchase Subsidy for Low-Income Households, is designed for families meeting specific criteria. However, it is important to note that households receiving welfare assistance are excluded from this program, as they have access to different support options through other channels.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the subsidy, applicants must meet the following conditions:
1. All members of the household must be registered residents of Hino City.
2. All members of the household must either:
- Be exempt from resident taxes for FY 2025 or 2026, or
- Only be subject to the equalized tax for resident tax for FY 2025 or 2026.
3. The household must fall into one of these categories concerning air conditioning:
- No air conditioning units installed.
- No functioning air conditioning due to malfunctions.
- Only using units manufactured before 2011.

Note: In cases of malfunction or outdated equipment, ownership must be verified to belong to the applying household.
For households receiving welfare, alternative subsidy options are available. Inquiries can be directed to the social welfare division’s caseworkers for further assistance.

Subsidy Details

The program covers various costs associated with air conditioning, including:

• - Purchase price of air conditioners.
• - Delivery fees.
• - Installation costs (including necessary construction costs).
• - Costs for removal and recycling of old units.

The maximum grant is capped at ¥120,000, which means that either the total purchase costs or the grant limit will be provided, depending on which is lower.

Unique Aspects of Hino City's Support

Hino City distinguishes itself from many others in Tokyo, where the subsidy typically caps at ¥100,000, by raising the ceiling to ¥120,000. This decision is made to alleviate the financial burden on households purchasing air conditioners, ensuring a greater level of comfort and safety during the hot months.

Application Process

If a household is interested in applying for the subsidy, they should first contact the dedicated call center (042-514-9090). Households receiving welfare assistance should reach out to their designated caseworkers instead.

Once the inquiry is made, a city investigator will visit the home to assess the current air conditioning situation. Depending on the circumstances, an inspection may not be necessary. After this assessment, applications must be submitted by September 11, 2026.

Upon completion of the application, a notification regarding grant approval will be sent out. After receiving this notification, households can then purchase and install their new air conditioning units. It is important to highlight that purchases made prior to grant approval will not be eligible for subsidy reimbursement.

The final step involves submitting a claim for the subsidy by November 30, 2026, after which recipients can expect to receive the funds within approximately one month.

As Hino City navigates the increasing challenges posed by climate change and extreme summer heat, initiatives like this air conditioning grant highlight the municipality's commitment to safeguarding the health and wellbeing of its residents. By actively addressing these pressing issues, Hino City demonstrates an exemplary model for other municipalities facing similar challenges.