The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) launched the Working Group on Renewable Energy as a Long-Term Power Source in Harmony with Local Communities in order to accelerate the introduction of renewable energy in harmony with the local community over the long term. The Working Group will study measures to maximize the use of existing renewable energy sources, as well as to develop specific institutional measures to strengthen business disciplines. At the first meeting, based on the recommendations made in the previous meetings of a study group*, items for consideration were presented for each project implementation phase.

1) Pre-land development phase: consideration will be given to strengthening procedures according to the location of the site, etc., and depending on the location of areas subject to forest land development permits, etc., acquisition of permits and approvals under related laws and regulations shall be a requirement for application, etc.

2) Post-land development to after commencement of operation and during operation: consideration will be given to establishing new measures to prevent and quickly resolve violations, including measures to withhold the payment of electricity sales income (FIT and FIP grants) in the event of violations

3) During operation to proper disposal: review current rules in case of increase in solar panel output to encourage replacement and addition of solar panels, handling of reserve funds for dismantling, etc.

4) Appropriate disposal: strengthening coordination among systems to ensure a well-planned response to the mass disposal of solar panels

5) Cross-cutting issues: make communication with local communities a requirement, and make it mandatory to inform local communities to hold explanatory meetings, etc. on renewable energy generation facilities above a certain capacity. Ensure proper business disciplines for non-FIT and non-FIP projects.

In order to achieve carbon neutrality and a 36-38% renewable energy ratio by FY 2030, the government will promote the introduction of renewable energy in harmony with local communities over the long term through the mass introduction of renewable energy on the premise of thorough implementation of appropriate business disciplines. The next hearing is expected to be held in late October 2022 for the association of renewable energy business operators.

* The Study Group on the Introduction and Management of Renewable Energy Generation Facilities