The development of microgrids in Japan

How will microgrids impact Japan's Energy Future?

As microgrids appear across the country, they will play an increasingly important role alongside the grid system to deliver clean and reliable power. Japan is currently aiming for 22%-24% of its energy to be produced by renewable sources by 2030, which will include 64GW of solar power.

When did microgrids start in Japan?

The first microgrids in Japan were New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization-financed projects initiated in Aichi, Kyoto and Hachinohe in 2003. A variety of energy sources were tested, in particular gas engines, and their success was demonstrated in the years that followed.

Does Japan need a microgrid?

The 9.0 magnitude earthquake, which hit off the coast of Sanriku, caused vast amounts of damage to Japan’s energy infrastructure, increasing the need for the project roll-out. “It has been accelerated due to the 2011 Great East Japan disaster, and about JPY45bn of funding has been granted” for further development of microgrids, says Kashiwagi.

Why are microgrid systems becoming more popular in Japan?

The success of projects such as Higashi Matsushima eco city has increased the popularity of microgrid systems in Japan. In August 2017, the Cabinet Office announced it would be increasing National Resilience Programme funding by 24%, as of April 2018.

What happened to Sendai microgrid?

On March 11, 2011, the devastating Great East Japan Earthquake hit the Tohoku district, inflicting catastrophic damage on the district's energy supply system for a number of days. Despite the extreme devastation, the Sendai Microgrid resumed supplying power and heat to customers after a short interruption, proving its effectiveness.

When were microgrids first used?

“ [Microgrids] were firstly demonstrated in Aichi Expo in 2005,” says Takao Kashiwagi, microgrid designer and Tokyo Institute of Technology professor at the International Research Centre for Advanced Energy Systems for Sustainability. “This demonstration is very important following the increasing share of renewable energy.”