Minami

Engineered to Weather Large Winter Snow Loads on Tough Terrain

CHALLENGE

After the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster in 2011, Japan shut down most of its nuclear reactors, which previously supplied about 30% of the country's electricity. This created an urgent need to diversify energy sources, reduce dependency on fossil fuel imports, and strengthen energy security.

The feed-in-tariff (FIT) system was introduced in 2012 to accelerate renewable energy adoption, with high energy compensation rates to encourage solar investment.

SOLUTION

Pacifico identified a golf course that was facing severe financial strain due to its large footprint, high staffing costs, and significant electricity demand.

Recognizing its potential, Pacifico envisioned transforming the site into a valuable renewable energy asset that was capable of supporting Japan’s energy needs.

The critical step in making this vision a reality was integrating the asset into the transmission network. Further, the site's topography and heavy snowfall were also impediments for typical utility-scale solar power plant developers.

RESULTS

Pacifico secured transmission system connectivity while designing a custom racking system capable of adapting to the rolling hills and withstanding heavy snowfall.

The project achieved outstanding success, both financially and in supporting Japan’s energy needs with locally sourced renewable power.

This accomplishment highlights Pacifico’s innovation, resourcefulness, and dedication to sustainable energy solutions.