

Minami
Engineered to Weather Large Winter Snow Loads on Tough Terrain
Status
Operational
Services
Utility-Scale Solar (Ground-Mounted)
Industry
Electric Utility / Wholesale
Snapshot

~55 MW
Solar Generation Capacity

+56%
More Efficient Over 2 Years

+$16M
Energy Savings per Annum
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.

DETAILS
Offtaker of Electricity
Chubu Electric Power Company
Solar Power Generation
54.8 MW
Location
Gujyo-shi, Gifu-ken, Japan
EPC Contractor
Toyo Engineering Corp.
Project Finance
Shinsei Bank, Ltd.
Date of Facility Certification
March 25, 2016
Commencement of Construction
February 2018
Date of Commercial Operation
July 2019
Status
Operational
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