History of Hokkaido Energy Special Zone (Ishikari/Tomakomai) and Current Status in 2020s - September 2002 to 2020s

History of Hokkaido Energy Special Zone (Ishikari/Tomakomai) and Current Status in 2020s - September 2002 to 2020s

The Hokkaido Energy Special Zone is an area that has been promoting the development and commercialization of renewable energy technologies since 2002, mainly in the central Hokkaido region (Ishikari and Tomakomai cities). In particular, the Ishikari and Tomakomai cities and surrounding areas have abundant natural gas resources that provide approximately 50 million cubic meters of methane gas annually. Demonstration tests of hydrogen energy using this gas are underway, and development of energy systems suitable for cold regions is underway.

Major companies, including Toyota Motor Corporation and Panasonic Corporation, are participating in the development of fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) and the installation of hydrogen stations. Tomakomai City, in particular, has invested approximately 5 billion yen in the development of hydrogen infrastructure and is expanding the operation of fuel cell vehicles and hydrogen buses. In addition, the linkage with renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power generation is being strengthened, and in Ishikari City, a 100 MW-class wind power plant has been constructed, contributing to the local power supply.

In the 2020s, the role of the Hokkaido Energy Special Zone is further expanding. In Ishikari City, a large-scale demonstration experiment is continuing, led by Hokkaido Electric Power Company and JERA, to verify the performance and efficiency of fuel cells in cold climates. In Tomakomai City, more than five hydrogen stations have been installed, and with the cooperation of Toyota Motor Corporation and Nissan Motor Corporation, the use of hydrogen energy is greatly expanding. This has increased energy sustainability in the local community.

Furthermore, Ishikari City's 100 MW wind power plant is operating as a core renewable energy source, and the electricity generated is used for hydrogen production and local power supply. This has allowed the entire Hokkaido region to develop as a clean energy hub, making it an international model case. Companies such as Asahi Kasei and Panasonic are also participating in technological development within the special zone, with a particular focus on fuel cell technology innovation.

In addition to having a major impact on Japan's overall energy policy in the 2020s, plans for clean energy exports are also being considered. In particular, technologies that utilize Hokkaido's natural energy resources are expected to play a role in the global energy transition.

Overall, the Hokkaido Energy Special Zone is furthering the development of renewable energy that began in 2002 and will continue to grow as the core of energy policy in Japan and abroad in the 2020s.