Japan unveils key to overcoming space limitations in renewable energy

EcoNews reveals in its recent article that Japan is making significant strides in the renewable energy sector, with the country embracing new innovations to revolutionize its energy landscape. 

Japan is set to experience a major transformation in renewable energy with the introduction of perovskite solar cells. These lightweight, flexible, and versatile solar cells offer a promising solution to energy production in urban areas, addressing both land scarcity and sustainability concerns. Let's explore how Japan is leveraging perovskite solar cell (PSC) technology to pave the way for a greener future.

Japan is leveraging its competitive strengths to take the lead in the global renewable energy transition. As part of its updated energy strategy, the Ministry of Industry has placed perovskite solar cells (PSCs) at the forefront of its plans, targeting the generation of 20 gigawatts of electricity—equivalent to 20 nuclear reactors—by fiscal 2040. 

This strategy is aligned with Japan’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. A key component of this plan is Japan's position as the second-largest producer of iodine worldwide, a crucial element in the production of perovskite solar cells. 

This gives Japan the ability to establish a self-sustaining supply chain within its own borders, enhancing economic security, reducing reliance on foreign resources, and fostering innovative developments in its domestic industries.

Though Japan once dominated solar panel manufacturing, its market share has dropped below 1 per cent due to subsidized competition from Chinese manufacturers. However, Japan is positioning itself to reclaim leadership with PSC technology. Supported by government backing, Sekisui Chemical Co. is working on advanced PSC modules, aiming for widespread commercial use by the 2030s.

PSCs stand out for their potential to completely transform how and where solar energy is captured, making them especially suitable for densely populated countries like Japan, where traditional silicon-based panels are often impractical due to their need for large spaces. 

Thanks to their lightweight, flexible, and bendable design, PSCs can be easily incorporated into urban environments. They can be installed on building walls, windows, car roofs, and streetlights, allowing these everyday surfaces to contribute to energy generation.

This innovation addresses Japan's space constraints by maximizing energy production in urban areas. Additionally, the adaptability of PSCs supports the integration of hybrid systems, such as wind and solar, enhancing overall renewable energy efficiency. However, challenges remain, including concerns about their durability and high initial costs. Still, as technology advances, it is expected that the cost of PSCs will decrease to JPY 10/W by 2040.

Since the nuclear disaster in Japan in March 2011, the country’s solar energy sector has undergone rapid transformation. Solar electricity now contributes nearly 10 per cent of Japan’s total energy production, a sharp increase from just 1.9 per cent in 2014.

Japan's current energy plan aims to increase this share further, targeting 36-38 per cent renewable energy consumption by 2030, with expectations that PSC technology will play a key role in achieving these goals by 2040. The government forecasts a significant cost reduction for PSCs, predicting a price drop to JPY 20/W by 2025, with further decreases anticipated afterward.

These targets are vital for making PSCs more accessible to a wider audience and expanding their use across various applications. CE-certified modules, designed for durability and safety, are being developed to meet the needs of both residential and commercial consumers.

With the adoption of PSC technology, Japan is demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainable development. By leveraging its renewable resources and promoting innovation, Japan is positioning itself as a global leader in renewable energy. As PSC technology becomes more affordable, it will not only provide energy solutions for Japan but also serve as a model for other nations, proving that wind and solar power can pave the way to a greener future.

By Naila Huseynova