Chubu Electric Power Co. has launched its first microgrid demonstration project in Iida City, Nagano Prefecture. The microgrid is primarily powered by Mega Solar Iida (1,000 kW) and low-voltage power plants (120kW) in the area is supported by a newly installed battery storage system (500 kW, 1,900 kWh) along with an energy management system (EMS) developed by the company.

The Iida Microgrid is a regional energy network that utilizes the existing distribution system to integrate renewable energy, storage, and smart management. Demonstration operations began on February 25 in 2025.

The project is designed to

• Enhance resilience by supplying power in the event of a major power outage
• Promote local production and consumption of renewable energy
• Secure revenue in the electricity market
• Alleviate grid congestion by optimizing energy use

The system will supply electricity to two high-voltage consumers and approximately 70 low-voltage consumers, covering a total demand of 300 kW.

The Mega Solar Iida power plant has a grid-connected output of 1 MW and an annual power generation capacity of 1 million kWh, equivalent to the electricity consumption of 300 households. The plant, which began operations in 2011, has been operating under Japan’s Feed-in Tariff (FIT) system since 2020.

The newly installed battery storage system has a maximum output of 500 kW, and a capacity of 1,963 kWh (enough to power approximately 150 households per day). The battery system follows a “local production for local consumption” model. It stores excess solar power during the day and discharges it at night, ensuring efficient energy utilization.

Under normal conditions, the microgrid remains connected to the main power grid. However, in case of a major blackout, the system can island itself by disconnecting from the grid. This ensures uninterrupted power supply to six designated evacuation facilities, including Kawaji Elementary School, Kawaji Nursery School, Community centers, and care facilities.

The project is expected to transition to full-scale operation by 2030.