Japan Solar Update: No.44 (May 8 ~ 12, 2023)
<Key points>
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- In order to strengthen business discipline for renewable energy power generation facilities under the Electricity Business Act, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) will confirm the status of compliance with relevant laws and regulations and consider the installation of fences and walls, etc.
- METI plans to confirm the acquisition of permits, etc. under the relevant laws and regulations before the start of construction, and confirm that the development has been properly completed as permitted before the start of use of the power generation facilities
- How to treat malicious cases where other laws and regulations are not complied with will be considered including the application of penalties
- For 10 to < 50 kW PV systems, in principle, the installation of fences and walls will be mandatory
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Strengthening of business discipline for renewable energy power generation facilities
*(1) Forest Act (Forest Land Development Permit System), (2) Embankment Regulation Act, (3) Three Acts on Sabo (sand erosion control)
Before starting use of facilities: Check whether development has been completed properly as permitted
Before the start of use of facilities: Attach documents indicating that the relevant prefectural government has confirmed the completion of development
How to confirm the status of foundation work: In self-confirmation before use, check with photos of the construction department and execution management records, etc.
Response to the cases when it is found that other laws and regulations have not been complied with
Consider malicious cases that do not comply with the guidance, including the application of penalties, contact relevant ministries and local governments to implement necessary corrective measures, and take measures including revocation of approval under the Act on Special Measures Concerning Procurement of Electricity from Renewable Energy Sources by Electricity Utilities (Renewable Energy Act) as necessary.
Exceptions shall be made when the installation of fences or walls interferes (AgriPV systems using large agricultural machinery, solar carports, etc.) only if measures are taken to prevent people from easily coming into contact with the charging part.
Figure 1 Summary of discussions on the review of safety regulations regarding appropriate introduction and management of renewable energy power generation facilities Source: Materials of the 28th meeting of Electric Power Safety Subcommittee (February 28, 2023), compiled by RTS Corporation