Eku Energy, a global specialist in energy storage, launches its first project in Japan with the Hirohara battery energy storage system.
Located in Oaza Hirohara, Miyazaki City, this 30MW/120MWh project is a significant step forward for Japan’s energy transition.
Construction will start in the second half of 2024, with commissioning scheduled for July 2026.
Once operational, the battery will be able to power around 63,000 homes for four hours.
Strategic agreement with Tokyo Gas
Eku Energy signs a 20-year purchase agreement with Tokyo Gas.
The agreement stipulates that Eku Energy will own the battery, while Tokyo Gas will hold the operating rights.
MUFG Bank is financing the project, marking their first involvement in an energy storage project in Japan.
This partnership enables Tokyo Gas to benefit from the operational advantages, with Eku Energy providing ongoing maintenance.
The innovative agreement model is perfectly aligned with Japan’s GX (Green Transformation) policy, aimed at balancing economic growth and emissions reduction.
The GX policy encourages an increase in renewable energy production, and battery storage is essential for managing electricity supply and demand.
Impact on Energy Transition
The implementation of the Hirohara project is part of Eku Energy’s strategy to develop, build and manage energy storage assets on a global scale.
With operations in the UK, Australia, Italy and now Japan, Eku Energy is playing a key role in the global energy transition.
Daniel Burrows, head of Eku Energy’s Asia-Pacific region, underlines the importance of this project: “The Hirohara battery energy storage system is our first project in Japan to reach financial close. We are delighted to be working with Tokyo Gas to accelerate the energy transition.”
Future prospects and development
Kentaro Ono, Managing Director of Eku Energy Japan, adds that the Japanese government is creating favorable environments for the development of battery storage.
“Opportunities to achieve decarbonization, stable energy supply and economic growth are increasing,” he asserts.
Eku Energy continues to build a solid foundation in Japan, working closely with stakeholders to meet the growing demand for energy storage and realize a sustainable energy future.
Hirofumi Sho, Head of Eku Energy Japan, explains that the company is working innovatively with local stakeholders to meet this demand.
The successful completion of this and similar future projects will strengthen Japan’s energy security and contribute to its emission reduction targets.
Eku Energy is positioning itself as a crucial player in the energy transition, with projects that support not only Japan but also global sustainability goals.
