Development History of Wood Pellet Fuel Utilization in Tochigi Prefecture (2000s–2020s)

Development History of Wood Pellet Fuel Utilization in Tochigi Prefecture (2000s–2020s)

2000s: Beginning of the Wood Pellet Business
In the 2000s, Tochigi Prefecture began promoting the production and utilization of wood pellet fuel to make effective use of forest resources. In 2007, the Nasu Forest Association spearheaded efforts to process cedar and cypress thinning residues and lumber scraps into pellets. This initiative aimed to establish a "local production for local consumption" energy model, utilizing pellets for home stoves, agricultural dryers, and public facility heating systems. Pellets were sold at approximately 16,000 yen per ton, and the "Nasu Pellet Center" in Nasushiobara City produced more than 1,200 tons annually. The installation of pellet boilers in public facilities and outreach activities for local residents advanced efforts to balance forest conservation and regional economic revitalization.

2010s: Expansion of Technology and Market
During the 2010s, pellet use expanded, with increased adoption in public facilities and among local residents. In particular, Nasu Town improved pellet production technology and expanded sales channels, further normalizing their use in agricultural dryers and public facilities. The Nasu Forest Association strengthened its production system to meet both local and external demand, while ongoing efforts such as pellet stove purchase support and awareness-raising events deepened residents' understanding.

2020s: Exploring Sustainable Energy Use
In the 2020s, Tochigi Prefecture launched various new initiatives to further promote the use of locally produced pellets. Nasu Town partnered with Hybrid Energy Co., Ltd. to start a biomass power generation demonstration project. A 1,000kW power generation facility was constructed to expand the use of renewable energy in the region. Nationwide, while demand for wood pellets has increased, the share of imported pellets has grown, reducing the self-sufficiency rate to 6.8%. In response, Tochigi Prefecture continued to install pellet boilers in public facilities and promote awareness among residents. The Nasu Forest Association maintained an annual production of 1,200 tons of pellets, striving to balance the circular use of forest resources and regional economic revitalization.

Summary
Tochigi Prefecture's wood pellet business, which began in the 2000s, expanded in use and dissemination during the 2010s, and has continued to evolve as a sustainable energy model in the 2020s. The efforts of the Nasu Forest Association and local companies exemplify the successful realization of circular resource utilization, forest conservation, and CO₂ reduction.