Will Japanese energy storage projects have a merchant component?

Future large-scale projects that have a merchant component are set to increase as sophisticated players from more mature power markets such as Australia, UK and US enter the Japanese energy storage market.

Why is Sun village expanding its battery storage projects in Japan?

As the role of grid-scale energy storage systems gains importance in ensuring stable grid operations and promoting renewable energy adoption, Sun Village is expanding its battery storage development projects across Japan.

What is Japan's energy storage policy?

As policy, technology, and decarbonization goals converge, Japan is positioning energy storage as a critical link between its climate targets and energy reliability. Japan’s energy storage policy is anchored by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), which outlined its ambitions in the 6th Strategic Energy Plan, adopted in 2021.

Why should Japan invest in storage batteries?

Energy Security: Storage batteries are key to stabilizing Japan’s energy system. Given Japan’s limited natural resources and dependence on imports, combined with its vulnerability to natural disasters, investing in reliable and sustainable energy solutions is critical.

What happened to Japan's lithium-ion battery market?

From 2015 to 2020, Japan’s share in the automotive lithium-ion battery market plummeted from over 50% to just 21%, and in stationary lithium-ion batteries, it dropped from 27% to a mere 5.4%. This rapid decline is striking, especially given Japan’s near-monopoly in 2000 and the fact that domestic production actually increased during this period.

How is Japan's energy storage landscape changing?

Japan’s energy storage landscape is shifting, pushed by household demand, corporate ESG mandates, and domestic battery manufacturing. The residential lithium-ion market, projected to grow at a CAGR of 33.9% through 2030, remains one of the fastest-expanding segments.