Overview
Shirakawa A is a 10 MW solar PV facility located in Japan, contributing to the country's renewable energy capacity under its feed-in tariff program.
Shirakawa A is a solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant located in Japan, with coordinates 37.136°N, 140.230°E. The facility has an installed capacity of 10 megawatts (MW), placing it in the small-to-medium scale range for solar PV installations. It is currently operational and contributes to Japan's growing renewable energy portfolio. The plant operates under Japan's feed-in tariff (FIT) system, which has been instrumental in driving solar PV deployment since its introduction in 2012. The FIT provides guaranteed payments for renewable electricity, supporting projects like Shirakawa A. Japan's renewable energy targets aim for 36-38% of electricity from renewables by 2030, with solar playing a key role. Shirakawa A's generation helps reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels and supports Japan's energy transition. Solar PV plants of this scale typically connect to the local grid, supplying clean electricity to nearby communities. The facility's location in Fukushima Prefecture aligns with regional efforts to rebuild and promote renewable energy after the 2011 disaster.
Environmental context
Solar PV installations like Shirakawa A have a low environmental footprint during operation, with no emissions or water consumption. However, land use for solar farms can impact local ecosystems and agriculture. In Japan, where land is scarce, ground-mounted solar projects may compete with other uses. Proper siting and vegetation management can mitigate these impacts. The facility's location in a temperate climate with adequate sunlight supports efficient generation.
Frequently asked questions
Shirakawa A is located in Japan at coordinates 37.136°N, 140.230°E, likely in Fukushima Prefecture.
Shirakawa A has an installed capacity of 10 megawatts (MW), making it a small-to-medium scale solar PV facility.
Shirakawa A generates clean electricity under Japan's feed-in tariff program, supporting the national target of 36-38% renewable electricity by 2030.
Japan's feed-in tariff (FIT) system, introduced in 2012, guarantees fixed payments for renewable energy, driving solar PV deployment. The program has been revised to include auctions for larger projects.
Solar PV plants have low operational emissions but require land, which can impact local ecosystems. In Japan, ground-mounted solar may face land-use competition, and proper siting is important to minimize ecological disruption.