#Japan #Renewable Energy #Tokyo #Idemitsu Kosan #Tocho Power

Tokyo’s Initiative for a Sustainable Energy Future

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has recently announced the launch of the Tocho Electricity Plan, designed to purchase excess electricity generated from homes, primarily from solar power. This initiative is a vital part of Tokyo's ambitious goal to achieve zero CO2 emissions by 2050. The goal to transform all energy used in public facilities into 100% renewable energy by this target date reflects Tokyo’s commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation in energy use.

What is the Tocho Electricity Plan?

The Tocho Electricity Plan is an initiative allowing households to sell their unused electricity generated from solar panels back to the Tokyo government. This program particularly targets residential power from homes that have exited the Feed-in Tariff (FIT) system, providing a significant opportunity for families to contribute to the city's green energy movement.

According to city officials, renewable energy sources include solar, wind, geothermal, small-scale hydro, and biomass, all contributing to a sustainable, eco-friendly electricity supply without harmful CO2 emissions. The Tocho Electricity Plan is designed to facilitate the use of 100% renewable energy in select public facilities throughout the city, thereby enhancing the overall sustainability of urban power consumption.

Key Details of the 2025 Program

Starting from November 19, 2025, households can apply to sell their excess electricity at a purchase price of 11 yen per kWh. Out of the total amount available, the plan aims to acquire electricity from homes up to a capacity of 17,000 kW, catering to around 5,000 households.

The appointed provider for this purchase program is Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd.. This collaboration underlines the importance of working with established energy companies to ensure a smooth transition to sustainable practices. Households that have completed their FIT period, which generally lasts for ten years for residential solar power, are eligible to participate. This initiative is particularly relevant to those who completed their FIT contract since November 2019.

How to Apply

To participate in the Tocho Electricity Plan, residents can contact the Idemitsu Tocho Electricity Plan Customer Center via a toll-free helpline: 0120-267-019. For those who cannot use the toll-free service, a standard rate number is available at 03-5527-0928, though charges apply. The application center is open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, excluding holidays from December 29 to January 3. Residents are also encouraged to apply online through the official website at Idemitsu Electricity.

Conclusion

As Tokyo moves towards its goal of becoming a zero-emission city by 2050, the Tocho Electricity Plan stands as a crucial step in harnessing residential renewable energy. By encouraging homeowners to contribute their surplus solar energy back to public facilities, the initiative fosters a collaborative approach to sustainability. Households are presented with not only an opportunity to earn from their solar energy production but also to play a part in Tokyo’s transformative environmental journey. This innovative program exemplifies how a modern urban center can adapt and thrive through renewable energy initiatives, delivering long-term benefits for the environment and the community alike.