Development history of wood fuel pellet diffusion in Tochigi Prefecture (2000s-2020s)

Development history of wood fuel pellet diffusion in Tochigi Prefecture (2000s-2020s)

2000s: Start of wood pellet business
In the 2000s, Tochigi Prefecture began to promote the production and diffusion of wood fuel pellets for the effective use of forest resources. 2007 saw the start of full-scale pellet production, led by the Nasu Forestry Cooperative, using thinned cedar and cypress wood and lumber scraps. This initiative was aimed at building a "local production for local consumption" energy model for use in home stoves, agricultural dryers, and heating systems in public facilities. The pellets were sold for about 16,000 yen per ton, and the Nasu Pellet Center in Nasushiobara City produced over 1,200 tons per year. Pellet boilers were installed in public facilities, and educational activities for local residents made progress, helping to both conserve forests and revitalize the local economy.

2010s: Technology and Market Expansion
In the 2010s, the use of pellets expanded, and their introduction among public facilities and local residents progressed. In Nasu Town in particular, pellet production technology was improved and sales channels expanded, further popularizing the use of pellets in agricultural dryers and public facilities. The Nasu Forestry Association strengthened its production system and expanded its business in response to demand both within and outside the region. At the same time, efforts continued to deepen residents' understanding of pellet stoves by supporting their purchase and holding educational events.

2020s: Searching for Sustainable Energy Use
In the 2020s, Tochigi Prefecture is developing a variety of new initiatives to further promote the use of locally produced pellets. In Nasu Town, a woody biomass power generation demonstration project was launched in collaboration with Hybrid Energy Corporation, with the aim of expanding the use of renewable energy in the region by constructing a 1,000 kW-scale power generation facility. Meanwhile, while demand for wood pellets is increasing nationwide, the share of imported pellets in the market is expanding, and the self-sufficiency rate has dropped to 6.8%. In response to this, pellet boilers are being introduced to public facilities in Tochigi Prefecture, and educational activities for local residents are continuing. The Nasu Forestry Cooperative continues to produce 1,200 tons of pellets annually, aiming to achieve both recycling of forest resources and revitalization of the local economy.

Conclusion
The wood pellet business in Tochigi Prefecture, which began in the 2000s, expanded its use and diffusion in the 2010s and continues to develop as a sustainable energy model in the 2020s. The efforts of the Nasu Forest Association and local companies are attracting attention as a successful example of recycling and utilization of local resources, simultaneously promoting forest conservation and CO₂ reduction.