Overview
Higashiyama is a 10 MW operational Solar PV facility located in Japan. It contributes to the country's renewable energy capacity under the national feed-in tariff scheme.
Higashiyama is a Solar PV power plant located in Japan, with a capacity of 10 MW. The facility is operational and contributes to Japan's growing renewable energy portfolio. Solar PV plants of this scale are typical for distributed generation in Japan, often installed on available land or rooftops. The plant operates under Japan's feed-in tariff (FIT) system, which has been instrumental in driving solar energy adoption since its introduction in 2012. The FIT provides guaranteed prices for solar electricity, encouraging investment in projects like Higashiyama. Japan's renewable energy targets aim for 36-38% of electricity from renewables by 2030, with solar playing a key role. Environmentally, the Higashiyama plant helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions by displacing fossil fuel-based electricity. Solar PV has minimal operational emissions and low water usage. The facility's location in Japan benefits from adequate solar irradiation, supporting efficient energy generation. Its grid integration supports local energy needs and contributes to national decarbonization goals.
Environmental context
Japan's mountainous terrain and limited flat land mean solar PV installations often occupy hillsides or agricultural areas, potentially affecting local ecosystems. However, solar farms like Higashiyama have a relatively low environmental footprint compared to fossil fuel plants. The facility's location in Saga Prefecture receives moderate solar radiation, suitable for PV generation. Proper siting and land management can minimize habitat disruption.
Frequently asked questions
The Higashiyama Solar PV plant is located in Japan, at coordinates 33.3384 N, 130.3824 E, in Saga Prefecture.
The Higashiyama solar facility has a capacity of 10 megawatts (MW), making it a medium-scale solar PV installation.
Japan's feed-in tariff (FIT) guarantees fixed prices for solar electricity, providing stable revenue for projects like Higashiyama. This policy has driven significant solar capacity growth since 2012.
Solar PV plants like Higashiyama generate electricity with zero emissions during operation, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. They also have low water consumption and can be sited on underutilized land.
Japan aims to source 36-38% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030, with solar PV expected to contribute significantly to this goal.