Overview
Suwa is a 46.8 MW solar PV facility located in Japan. It is operational and contributes to the country's renewable energy capacity under the national feed-in tariff scheme.
Suwa is a solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant located in Japan, with a capacity of 46.8 megawatts (MW). This scale places it in the medium-to-large category for solar installations in the country, supporting Japan's transition to renewable energy sources. The facility is operational and plays a role in the local energy grid. The plant operates under Japan's feed-in tariff (FIT) program, which has been instrumental in driving solar PV deployment since its introduction in 2012. The FIT provides guaranteed payments for renewable electricity, encouraging investment in solar energy. Japan's Renewable Energy Act and its target to achieve 36-38% renewable energy by 2030 further support facilities like Suwa. Suwa's solar PV technology generates clean electricity without direct emissions, contributing to Japan's goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The facility's location in Nagano Prefecture benefits from adequate solar irradiation, and its output helps diversify the regional energy mix. As Japan continues to integrate renewable energy, plants like Suwa support grid stability and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Environmental context
Solar PV facilities like Suwa have a low environmental footprint during operation, with no air or water emissions. However, land use for solar arrays can impact local ecosystems and agricultural land. In Japan, where land is scarce, ground-mounted solar farms may compete with other uses. The facility's location in Nagano Prefecture, a mountainous region, may involve site preparation that affects local flora and fauna. Proper siting and decommissioning plans are essential to minimize long-term environmental impacts.
Frequently asked questions
The Suwa solar PV plant is located in Japan, with coordinates approximately 36.0170° N, 138.0530° E, in Nagano Prefecture.
The Suwa solar plant has a capacity of 46.8 megawatts (MW), making it a medium-to-large scale solar PV facility in Japan.
The Suwa plant uses solar photovoltaic (PV) technology to convert sunlight directly into electricity.
Japan's feed-in tariff (FIT) program, established in 2012, provides guaranteed payments for renewable electricity. The country also has a target to achieve 36-38% renewable energy by 2030 under its Strategic Energy Plan.
By generating 46.8 MW of clean electricity, Suwa helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels and supports Japan's target of increasing renewable energy share to 36-38% by 2030.