Introduction of Licensing Certification System for Unique 'Hinatao Lightweight Adhesive Installation Method' — Accelerating Solar Power Installation on Challenging Buildings through Enhanced Construction Framework

Tokyo Gas Co., Ltd. (President: Shinichi Sasayama, hereinafter "Tokyo Gas") announces the introduction of a licensing certification system (hereinafter "the system") for its proprietary installation method (hereinafter "the method"), named the "Hinatao Lightweight Adhesive Installation Method", which uses specialized adhesives to install solar panels as part of its solar PPA service "Hinatao Solar" (hereinafter "the service").

Since 2020, Tokyo Gas has utilized this proprietary method to achieve lightweight, non-penetrative installations, addressing challenges for customers nationwide whose roofs—due to shape or load-bearing limitations—were previously unsuitable for solar panel installation using conventional methods. Building on the 2024 launch of services for slate roofs, the method is now being expanded this fiscal year to include building façades (※2), continuously evolving to meet customer needs. Through the introduction of this system, Tokyo Gas will expand partnerships with construction companies proficient in this method, strengthening its high-quality installation framework to better serve customers seeking solar power solutions for structurally challenging buildings.

<Overview of the System> ※Application for new construction partners available here.

This system certifies solar power system installation companies that possess the technical capability and organizational capacity to properly implement the Hinatao Lightweight Adhesive Installation Method, granting them a construction license from Tokyo Gas. Only licensed "Certified Construction Partners" will be authorized to carry out installations for the service, ensuring high-quality service delivery to customers.

① Granting of Construction License

Tokyo Gas will grant construction licenses to installation companies and supervisors who complete the technical training designated by Tokyo Gas and meet the certification criteria.

② Application of the Method

The method may only be implemented under the following conditions:

・ Installation is carried out by a Tokyo Gas Certified Construction Partner.

・ Tokyo Gas-specified dedicated materials are used, and Tokyo Gas-prescribed installation procedures are followed.

・ The installation project is for Hinatao Solar, commissioned by Tokyo Gas (※3).

<Features of the Method>

① Lightweight

This unique method minimizes the use of conventional mounting frames and bolts, significantly reducing structural load on buildings and enabling compatibility with a wide variety of roofing materials and shapes (※4). For wall-mounted installations, demonstration tests are currently underway, aiming for service rollout by fiscal year 2026 (※2).

② No Roof Penetration

Since installation does not require drilling into the roof, there is no risk of leaks or dust generation caused by construction.

③ Reliability

By using specialized materials independently verified and developed by Tokyo Gas, the method achieves high reliability even with adhesive-only installation (※5).

Tokyo Gas is committed to its group management vision "Compass 2030", which emphasizes the creation of a "Value Co-Creation Ecosystem" (※6) and the challenge toward "Net Zero CO2". The company will continue to develop and deliver diverse services that solve various challenges—from individual households to local communities—contributing together with customers to the realization of a decarbonized society.

※1: Tokyo Gas "Hinatao Solar" website

※2: Demonstration tests are currently underway at various locations.

Establishment of a new adhesive method for thin, lightweight solar panels on building façades — First domestic demonstration test of "Chalcogenide Thin-Film Solar Cells" on building walls at "Techno Farm Keihanna" (announced May 26, 2026)

Joint development of next-generation solar cells selected for the "Kanagawa Prefecture Carbon Neutral R&D Project Promotion Program" (announced June 17, 2026)

※3: To ensure construction quality, the method will initially only apply to Hinatao Solar projects commissioned by Tokyo Gas.

※4: Compatible with trapezoidal roofs (~4.0 kg/m²), slate roofs (~8.0 kg/m²), and flat roofs (~10.0 kg/m²) and above.

※5: Wind resistance verified at approximately 60 m/s for 10 minutes.

※6: A business ecosystem where multiple companies contribute their respective technological expertise, know-how, and insights to co-create new value.

About the Solution Brand "IGNITURE" (※7)

In November 2023, Tokyo Gas launched the solution brand "IGNITURE" to accelerate the deployment of comprehensive solutions. Through solutions under the IGNITURE brand, Tokyo Gas enables households, businesses, and communities to seamlessly achieve both a richer future—through optimization for economic efficiency, convenience, and productivity—and sustainable living and operations—through decarbonization and enhanced resilience.

※7: For more details on IGNITURE, visit here.

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