Optimizing Japan’s Energy System in 2050 through Photovoltaics
Achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 in Japan requires expanding solar photovoltaic (PV), focusing on distributed installations rather than costly centralized plants, due to power grid expansion. Our research utilizes a bottom-up economic model integrated with Japan’s power grid, based on The Integrated MARKAL-EFOM System (TIMES), to optimize a “Grid-Coordinated/Distributed Energy System” with building PV systems as the main power source. While rooftop PV alone has limitations, adding façade installations could increase generation. The objective of this study is to calculate the realistic PV potential for building rooftops and façades in Japan using geographic data, considering shadows between PV panels and the threshold of power generation costs. The findings indicate that installing façade at an appropriate threshold can significantly increase power generation and maintain low average Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) in Japan. Additionally, I will discuss scenarios analysis of PV supply power by primary substation in Tokyo. It found that adding façade installations significantly increases power supply when combined with storage systems in Tokyo.
Speaker – Shuai Wang, Doctoral student majoring in Energy Science and Informatics at the Tokyo Institute of Technology
These seminars are being delivered by students participating in an exchange program between Tokyo Institute of Technology and Energy, Futures Lab, Imperial College London. The programme offers a unique opportunity for the participants to deepen their academic and cultural understanding over the course of one intensive week. This collaborative initiative is designed to foster cross-institutional learning and innovation in the field of engineering and sustainable energy. The exchange not only aims to enhance technical skills but also to build lasting international connections and a broader perspective on global energy challenges.
About Energy Futures Lab
Energy Futures Lab is one of seven Global Institutes at Imperial College London. The institute was established to address global energy challenges by identifying and leading new opportunities to serve industry, government and society at large through high quality research, evidence and advocacy for positive change. The institute aims to promote energy innovation and advance systemic solutions for a sustainable energy future by bringing together the science, engineering and policy expertise at Imperial and fostering collaboration with a wide variety of external partners.