In June 2021, we launched a renewable energy aggregation pilot test project with Kansai Electric Power Company and Kanden Energy Solution Co., Inc. This project 1) forecasts unstable electric power generation, 2) balances each instability by combining multiple solar and wind power sources, and 3) compensates for persistent instability by using storage batteries.
By amassing data on the renewable energy power plants owned by the three companies, we will be able to verify the accuracy of power generation forecasts by combining various data sets, including weather information. Moreover, in addition to ensuring that power generation plans based on forecasts match actual power output and the timing of said output, we are looking to confirm that we will be able to adjust the output of the storage batteries to meet any variation in the output of renewable energy power facilities.
Through this project, we aim to build a stable and effective electric power system using distributed energy resources (DER), such as storage batteries, and contribute to the wider adoption of renewable energy, thereby contributing to the realization of a carbon-neutral society by 2050.
Idemitsu and Solar Frontier are working with Nissan Motors Co., Ltd. on a pilot test project for electric vehicle (EV) charging services using unique dynamic pricing.*1
The three companies are undertaking this project with the purpose of reducing and leveling off the electric power burden in the lead up to a future in which EVs and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHVs) are more widely adopted. We aim to help achieve carbon neutrality and realize a sustainable electric power infrastructure by effectively using renewable energy for EV charging in this project and verifying a mechanism that enables charging outside of times with increased electric power demand.
Using a smartphone app, we notify Nissan Leaf EV owners who are participating in the pilot test of charging incentives (electricity fee discounts) that differ depending on the time of day. This encourages participants to charge their EVs during daylight hours when solar panels (the main renewable energy power source) are operational as well as during such low-power demand hours as late at night. We then analyze participant behavior and survey results to verify the effectiveness and feasibility of such incentives.
In March 2021, we initiated a pilot test with Nihon Unisys Co., Ltd. aimed at optimizing control of EV and storage battery charging and discharging. With the aim of developing energy management technology that combines solar power units, EVs, and storage batteries, the test is based on forecasts of the power demand from buildings, solar power generation capacity, EV operation status, and wholesale electric power market trends.
The test is being conducted at the Kunitomi Plant (Miyazaki Prefecture) of our affiliate Solar Frontier K.K. We began by drawing up an optimal charging and discharging plan for EV and storage batteries based on forecasts of the power demand from the offices, the power generated by the solar car ports, and the operational status of multiple EVs. By establishing technology that can control multiple factors, including solar power units, EVs, and storage batteries, we will realize a reduction in the cost borne by electric power customers as well as a reduction in the procurement cost for retail electric power providers. For the test, we are utilizing Solar Frontier’s owned assets (offices and company EVs) and products (such as storage batteries, EV battery charging and discharging devices, EV battery chargers, and solar car ports).
Through this pilot test, we aim to continue further expanding the use of solar power and other renewable energy as well as stably supplying energy to and reducing the carbon emissions of the distribution department through greater use of EVs and PHEVs going forward.
