The Japanese Ministry of the Environment (MOE) selected two projects in May 2007, under its new business incubation program to combat global warming: "Utilization of unharnessed energy at water supply facilities," proposed by Tokyo Electric Generation Co. (TEG), and "Air-conditioning system with external power source for parked trucks to avoid engine idling," by Tokyo Electric Power Co. (TEPCO).

The ministry's subsidy program has until now emphasized the energy demand side to introduce technologies to fight global warming, but there were limits to what could be achieved. The new approach aims to assist new businesses that can prevent global warming on the energy supply side.

TEG plans to install small hydroelectric generators in two water supply facilities in Chiba Prefecture as a public-private joint project, taking advantage of as-yet unutilized hydropower at these locations. The company intends to sell this eco-friendly electricity to the prefectural waterworks department. The project will help reduce 890 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions annually, equivalent to the amount of CO2 that 138 hectares of forest can absorb in a year.

TEPCO's project aims to sell and install externally-powered air-conditioning systems for trucks, as drivers often park with the engine running for hours while they rest. The project also aims to install electrical outlets in truck parking lots and collect fees for the electricity consumed. The system can reduce carbon dioxide emissions since drivers will be able to shut off their engines while they rest. See also related JFS articles shown below.

http://www.env.go.jp/en/headline/headline.php?serial=456
- External Power Air-Conditioning System for Trucks to Begin Operation (Related JFS article)
http://www.japanfs.org/db/1859-e

Posted: 2007/10/14 05:14:12 PM
Japanese version

TAG Energy , Global warming , Government , Non-manufacturing industry