#Japan #Renewable Energy #Microsoft #Fukuoka #Shizen Energy

Shizen Energy and Microsoft Celebrate a Milestone in Renewable Energy

In a significant advancement for the renewable energy landscape in Japan, Shizen Energy, headquartered in Fukuoka, has announced that their long-term purchase agreements with Microsoft have collectively reached a capacity of 100MW. This milestone is not just a number; it represents a deeper commitment to sustainable energy solutions within the country.

The agreements include not only Shizen’s first project with Microsoft at the Inuyama Solar Power Plant but also three additional new projects, securing a 20-year contract for each. These expansions underscore a pivotal moment for Microsoft's initiatives in Japan, marking its first renewable energy long-term purchase agreement.

The newly added solar power facilities are located in both the Kyushu and Chugoku regions. Importantly, all projects have successfully completed project financing, with one facility in Kyushu already operational. The remaining facilities are under construction, with one site being developed by Shizen Engineering, a subsidiary of Shizen Energy, while Shizen Operations is slated to manage and operate all three plants.

Rei Ushikubo, an executive at Shizen Energy, expressed pride in securing these long-term partnerships with Microsoft. He noted, “Following our project in Inuyama, we are honored to finalize multiple projects with Microsoft. The successful funding from both domestic and international financial institutions is indicative of the increasing presence of renewable energy long-term purchase agreements in Japan. We are committed to aiding our customers in their decarbonization efforts and will continue to focus on these projects.”

Shizen Energy aims to accelerate corporate adoption of renewable energy and lead the renewable energy purchasing market in Japan. The company is dedicated to contributing to a sustainable society through innovative renewable energy solutions.

Founded in June 2011, Shizen Energy emphasizes its mission “to connect the blue planet to the future.” The company operates using solar, wind, and biomass energy, striving to minimize environmental impacts while promoting regional economic development. Its commitment extends beyond Japan, as Shizen Energy has expanded internationally since 2016, undertaking projects in Southeast Asia and Brazil. In 2019, it ventured into the energy tech sector, delivering innovations such as energy management systems (EMS), microgrids, and smart EV charging services.

Shizen Energy’s efforts have ensured they remain at the forefront of the industry, handling over 1 gigawatt of renewable energy generation projects across their global operations.

For more information, check their website at Shizen Energy and their press release about the agreement with Microsoft here.

*Note: Microsoft is a registered trademark of the Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries.