JFE Shoji Launches Demonstration Test of Solar Power Generation Inside Strawberry Greenhouses

JFE Shoji Co., Ltd. (President: Norifumi Sobui) has launched a demonstration test of a new solar power generation system in greenhouse horticulture.

This initiative employs the company's unique 'vertically suspended' method, where solar panels are hung from the greenhouse structure, enabling local production and consumption of electricity. The goal is to simultaneously enhance agricultural value and contribute to a decarbonized society.

Background and Objectives

In recent years, the agricultural sector has faced rising energy costs, labor shortages, and declining crop quality and yields due to global warming.

In response, JFE Shoji is utilizing its 'vertically suspended' solar power system within a strawberry greenhouse to demonstrate a new locally produced and consumed energy model. By eliminating the need for additional frames or mounting structures, this method reduces overall energy costs. The resulting low-cost energy will support high-value agriculture, aiming to address challenges such as increasing farming participation and food security.

The demonstration also aims to mitigate heat stress through panel shading, reduce CO2 emissions by electrifying winter heating systems currently reliant on heavy oil or kerosene, and lower social infrastructure costs through localized electricity consumption.

Overview of the Initiative

Conducted in cooperation with hiko farm, a strawberry farm in Ibaraki Prefecture (Representative: Shingo Hikota), lightweight and flexible solar panels are installed inside the greenhouse. The self-generated electricity is used for climate control and various cultivation management systems. Key features include:

- Simple installation using the existing greenhouse structure, eliminating the need for additional supports

- Easy adjustment of panel angles to optimize sunlight for crops while generating power

- Shading from panels to manage heat and regulate light exposure

- Reduced electricity costs and environmental impact through self-generation

Key Demonstration Points

The main features of this initiative are:

- A steel-related company entering agriculture to address social challenges

- Development of a differentiated model using patented technology

- Practical business validation through collaboration with farmers

Challenges to achieving economically viable farming include reducing installation costs, optimizing panel angles according to crop growth stages, and maximizing power generation despite the suboptimal indoor environment. These aspects will be rigorously evaluated for feasibility and practicality.

Verification Content

【Power Generation Value】Impact on economics and energy security through local production and consumption

- Comparative evaluation of the benefits of simple installation versus the drawbacks of indoor power generation

- Assessment of the necessity and viability of battery storage for local consumption models

【Agricultural Value】Impact on farm operations

- Production of high-value, delicious summer and autumn strawberries

- Improved equipment utilization and labor productivity through year-round cultivation

- Total cost analysis of implementing the vertically suspended system

【Environmental Value】Impact on the global environment

- Validation of the effectiveness of a 'fossil-fuel-free agricultural greenhouse'

- Promotion of photosynthesis through CO2 enrichment using non-fossil fuel sources, alongside electrification of winter heating

Future Outlook

Through this project, the company aims to contribute to a decarbonized society, enhance agricultural sustainability, and reduce transmission infrastructure load through localized electricity consumption.

Comment from Shingo Hikota of hiko farm

'Agriculture is one of the few industries capable of absorbing greenhouse gases, yet we still rely on fossil fuels and electricity during cultivation, which feels frustrating from a climate change perspective. We are also increasingly affected by extreme weather events such as delayed harvests due to heat, increased pest risks, and heavy rainfall.

This initiative gives me hope that by using renewable energy, we can reduce environmental impact while using the generated electricity to control greenhouse conditions and grow tastier crops.

I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to sustainable agriculture and the development of technologies that produce better-tasting produce, and I will approach this with sincerity.'

Shingo Hikota is the second person from the left in the front row.