Overview
Asakawa is an operational solar PV facility in Japan with a capacity of 18.8 MW, contributing to the country's renewable energy mix under the Feed-in Tariff scheme.
Asakawa is a solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant located in Japan, with coordinates approximately 37.06°N, 140.41°E. The facility has an installed capacity of 18.8 megawatts (MW) and is currently operational. It represents a medium-scale solar installation within Japan's growing renewable energy sector. The plant operates under Japan's regulatory framework for renewable energy, which includes the Feed-in Tariff (FIT) program introduced in 2012 to promote solar, wind, and other renewables. The FIT guarantees fixed payments for electricity generated from renewable sources, driving significant solar capacity additions. Asakawa's 18.8 MW capacity places it among the many utility-scale solar projects that have been developed under this scheme. Asakawa contributes to Japan's goal of increasing renewable energy's share in its power mix, reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels and nuclear power. Solar PV plants like Asakawa help diversify energy sources and support grid stability, particularly during peak demand periods. The facility's location in a region with suitable solar irradiation ensures efficient energy generation.
Environmental context
Solar PV installations like Asakawa have a low environmental footprint during operation, producing no direct emissions. However, land use for solar farms can impact local ecosystems and agricultural land. In Japan, where land is scarce, ground-mounted solar projects may compete with other uses. The facility's location in a rural area likely minimizes conflicts, but careful siting is needed to avoid habitat disruption. End-of-life panel disposal also presents environmental considerations.
Frequently asked questions
The Asakawa solar PV plant is located in Japan at coordinates approximately 37.06°N, 140.41°E.
The Asakawa solar plant has an installed capacity of 18.8 megawatts (MW), making it a medium-scale solar facility.
Asakawa uses solar photovoltaic (PV) technology, which converts sunlight directly into electricity using semiconductor panels.
Japan's Feed-in Tariff (FIT) program guarantees fixed payments for electricity generated from renewable sources, including solar PV. This incentivizes investment in projects like Asakawa by providing stable revenue over a fixed period.
Solar PV plants have low operational emissions but require land that may affect local ecosystems. In Japan, land scarcity necessitates careful siting to minimize impacts on agriculture and natural habitats. Panel recycling is also an emerging concern.