Agriphotovoltaic Power Generation and Assignment in Japan

Abstract

The Japanese government announced its ambitious target to increase the power configuration of renewable energy to 36-38% for all power-generation numbers. However, international criticism requires Japan to exhibit a higher share of renewable energy. Among this 36-38%, the top share is photovoltaic power generation at 14-16%, hydroelectric power at 11%, wind power and biomass power each at 5%, and geothermal power at 1%. Photovoltaic power generation developed rapidly between 2011 and 2019 to reach half the 36-38% target. This was achieved by placing panels over conversed farmland and developed forest land. The used land is substantial, comprising 13,000 ha of farmland and 19,000 ha of forest land, indicating that Japan has lost valuable agricultural land and extensive forests. Agriphotovoltaic power generation in Japan has only been developed over 873 ha until 2019 while maintaining both farmland and power generation. However, this power source should be produced more efficiently.