Commenced 2MW commercial solar installation at Kensei Transport logistics center

VPP startup SODEN Co., Ltd. (headquartered in Chuo City, Tokyo; Representative Director: Rui Iino; hereafter “SODEN”) has begun introducing solar power systems with a combined capacity of approximately 2 MW at the Tsukubamirai Logistics Center, owned by Kensei Unyu Co., Ltd. (headquartered in Joso City, Ibaraki Prefecture; President: Yasunobu Ishiguro; hereafter “Kensei Unyu”).

Through this initiative, the companies aim to reduce electricity costs and CO₂ emissions at the logistics facility while advancing how it manages and uses energy.

Background and Objectives

In recent years, instability in international affairs, including heightened tensions in the Middle East, has increased uncertainty over energy supplies and the risk of rising electricity prices. For logistics facilities that consume large amounts of electricity, controlling costs while maintaining stable operations has become an increasingly important business priority.

Kensei Unyu is introducing solar power systems at the Tsukubamirai Logistics Center to reduce costs through on-site electricity consumption and lower CO₂ emissions. The initiative also lays the groundwork for more advanced energy management in the future.

Overview of the Initiative

By making greater use of renewable energy, Kensei Unyu aims to improve energy efficiency at the logistics facility while reducing its environmental impact. The company also intends to strengthen the facility’s resilience by developing an approach to energy use that is less vulnerable to changes in external conditions.

In the first phase, Kensei Unyu will install solar power systems and switch its retail electricity supply contract to SODEN to reduce day-to-day electricity costs.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, the companies will consider battery storage and more advanced energy management, as well as the potential for vehicle-to-everything (V2X) applications involving electric trucks and their batteries. These measures would enable more effective use of the energy generated and improve electricity efficiency across the facility.

The systems may also provide emergency power during disasters. Beyond reducing Kensei Unyu’s costs and strengthening its business continuity planning, the initiative is expected to contribute to local disaster preparedness.

The project is a first step toward more advanced energy use at logistics facilities. It also aligns with the VPP approach of coordinating and controlling distributed energy resources.

SODEN’s Role

SODEN is managing the process from equipment selection and design through construction oversight. It is also developing an energy plan that accounts for potential future use of battery storage, VPP technology, and V2X, supporting an installation tailored to the facility’s characteristics.

Preparations are progressing toward the start of operations during fiscal 2026.

Comments

Yasunobu Ishiguro, President, Kensei Unyu Co., Ltd.

“We believe renewable energy is becoming increasingly important to our business, both as a response to rising energy costs and from the perspectives of business continuity and environmental responsibility at our logistics facilities.

This initiative is about more than reducing electricity bills. It is a first step toward rethinking how we use energy and, ultimately, building a more resilient and sustainable logistics facility.

We will continue working with SODEN to pursue sustainable operations alongside the local community.”

Rui Iino, Representative Director, SODEN Co., Ltd.

“Changes in international affairs and rising electricity prices have made it increasingly important for companies to generate, store, and use energy effectively themselves.

Our work with Kensei Unyu is a first step in using renewable energy at a logistics facility. It is also a significant project that could lead to future battery storage and V2X applications, as well as integrated control through a VPP.

SODEN will continue to support companies beyond the initial installation. By putting renewable energy to work in logistics and mobility, we aim to help them reduce carbon emissions and strengthen resilience.”