Which redox flow battery is subsidized by Japan's government?

Japan’s Sumitomo Electric is building the first redox flow battery to be approved for government subsidy in the country. The 2 MW/8 MWh facility, which is under construction on the island of Kyushu, will be subsidized under Japan’s FY2024 Renewable Energy Expansion and Grid-Scale Energy Storage System Support Program.

Will Hokkaido Electric share a battery capacity?

Hokkaido Electric, the power firm in the region has invited offers from applicants that want to interconnect their renewable energy facilities to the grid and 15 companies will share the capacity the flow battery systems helps to free up. Costs of the battery will be shared by Hokkaido Electric and the other stakeholders.

What is Japan's energy subsidy scheme?

The subsidy regime, which backs utility-scale storage and water electrolysis, was introduced by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry and the Agency for Natural Resources and Energy. The battery will be installed for oil distributor Shin-Idemitsu Co. Ltd. and is expected to be operational in October 2026.

How long does a energy storage system last?

Unveiled at Energy Storage North America (ESNA), held in San Diego from February 25–27, 2025, the system applies “newly developed long life materials” which allows for a 30-year operational lifespan. Such a lifespan, which is subject to proper maintenance, enhances the system’s long-term cost effectiveness, the manufacturer said.