Ministry Subsidizes Solar Energy Generation for Joint Use at Local Level

On September 11, 2006, the Japanese Ministry of the Environment announced three winning model projects under its subsidy program for megawatt-class solar power generation facilities for joint use. This program started in fiscal 2006 to promote the introduction of photovoltaic (PV) power generation systems, which to date have not been widely introduced due to their high costs.

By launching this subsidy program for joint use of PV systems in local communities, the ministry aims to demonstrate the feasibility of diverse operations of megawatt-class PV systems and expand them nationwide.

Under the program, the ministry provides subsidies of up to 400,000 yen (U.S.$3,390) per kilowatt to private businesses that are planning to build a 1,000 kilowatt (one megawatt) class PV power generation system for joint use in local communities.

The three winning projects include a power generation project operated by Saku-Saku Himawari, a Limited Liability Partnership, in Saku City, Nagano Prefecture; a project by Ohisama Shinpo Energy, a limited liability company, near Iida City, Nagano Prefecture; and a project by Yosakoi Energy Joint Use (tentative name), another LLP, in Konan City and locations, Kochi Prefecture. The total subsidies amount to 380 million yen (U.S.$3.2 million).



Posted: 2007/01/22 10:00:07 AM
Japanese version