Canadian Solar has announced that three of its solar power projects in Japan totalling 42MWp reached commercial operation in the first quarter of 2023.
The Oita Kitsuki, Gunma Takasaki and Yamaguchi Hofu developments are powered by Canadian Solar bifacial BiHiKu modules.
The energy generated is being purchased by grid operators in their respective areas under Japan’s feed-in-tariff programme for approximately 19 years at the rates of JPY32 (US$0.24), JPY14.49 (US$0.11), and JPY14.25 (US$0.10) per kWh.
These projects together are set to produce circa 53,000 MWh of renewable energy, which will power approximately 15,000 households, equivalent to avoiding approximately 24,000 tonnes of annual carbon emissions.
Chairman and chief executive of Canadian Solar Dr Shawn Qu said: “We are delighted to be part of the green transformation that Japan is going through with these additions to our portfolio.
“Our teams worked closely with the local communities and governments to bring these projects to fruition.
“Working closely with local community to cultivate a sustainable long-term relationship is one of our ESG sustainable development goals.
“Canadian Solar’s Sustainability Report provides a detailed discussion on our ESG goals, targets and approaches.
“The Oita Kitsuki project was our first site where we installed a Static Synchronous Compensator (STATCOM), a more challenging power quality requirement that will meaningfully help improve the grid’s reliability given the growing number of interconnected solar farms.
“On the other hand, the Gunma Takasaki and Yamaguchi Hofu projects were awarded FITs via the solar auction held in 2018.
“Despite market doubts over the feasibility of building developments with JPY14 per kWh at the time of the auction, our team persisted and today has proved the ability to create value and build solar farms that will benefit both local communities as well as investors.”