Hokkaido Energy Special Zone (Ishikari & Tomakomai) - History and Current Situation in the 2020s - From September 2002 to the 2020s

Hokkaido Energy Special Zone (Ishikari & Tomakomai) - History and Current Situation in the 2020s - From September 2002 to the 2020s

The Hokkaido Energy Special Zone, established in 2002, focuses on the development and commercialization of renewable energy technologies in the central Hokkaido region (Ishikari and Tomakomai). In particular, the Ishikari and Tomakomai areas have abundant natural gas resources, supplying approximately 50 million cubic meters of methane gas annually. This gas is used for hydrogen energy demonstration experiments, advancing energy systems suitable for cold climates.

Major companies like Toyota and Panasonic are involved in the development of fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) and the construction of hydrogen stations. In Tomakomai, approximately 5 billion yen has been invested, and the infrastructure for hydrogen has expanded, leading to the operation of FCVs and hydrogen buses. Additionally, the integration of wind and solar power has been strengthened, with the construction of a 100MW wind farm in Ishikari, contributing to the region's electricity supply.

In the 2020s, the role of the Hokkaido Energy Special Zone has expanded further. In Ishikari, Hokkaido Electric Power Co. and JERA are leading large-scale demonstration projects to evaluate the performance and efficiency of fuel cells in cold regions. Tomakomai now has more than five hydrogen stations, with Toyota and Nissan collaborating on expanding hydrogen energy use, significantly enhancing the sustainability of local energy systems.

Moreover, the 100MW wind farm in Ishikari is a key component of the region's renewable energy infrastructure, with its power being used for hydrogen production and local electricity supply. This makes Hokkaido a key hub for clean energy and a global model case. Companies like Asahi Kasei and Panasonic are also involved in technology development within the special zone, focusing particularly on fuel cell innovations.

In the 2020s, Japan's national energy policy has been heavily influenced by these projects, with plans for clean energy exports being considered. The natural energy resources of Hokkaido, combined with advanced technologies, are expected to play a crucial role in global energy transitions.

Overall, the Hokkaido Energy Special Zone has continued to grow as a key center for renewable energy development since 2002, positioning itself as a central figure in both domestic and international energy policy in the 2020s.