How many battery storage projects will Stonepeak and CHC develop in Japan?

Stonepeak and CHC’s energy storage platform will develop five new battery storage projects in Japan. These projects have a combined capacity of 348 megawatts (MW). The deals were finalized under Japan’s Long-term Decarbonization Auction. These projects were selected as part of Japan’s latest long-term auction focused on low-carbon energy.

Why are battery storage projects growing in Japan?

The ramp up of battery storage projects in Japan continues apace, aided by growing subsidy avenues and rising volumes on various electricity markets, from spot to balancing to capacity.

How big is Japan's battery storage capacity?

Rystad forecasts Japan's battery storage capacity could reach about 4 GW based on projects under construction, planned and awarded, which would require $6 billion in investment.

How much do Japanese companies spend on battery storage projects?

Since December 2023, companies have announced investments of at least $2.6 billion in Japanese battery storage projects, according to calculations by Reuters. That includes $677 million in spending by Japanese real estate firm Hulic (3003.T) announced in January and $1.3 billion by trading house Sumitomo (8053.T) last year.

Does Japan have a battery subsidy program?

As Japan works to expand battery storage amid growing solar and wind capacity, METI also runs a similar subsidy scheme at the national level. In FY2024, it awarded 34.6 billion yen to 27 projects. Both programs are expected to continue in FY2025.

How much battery power does Japan have?

As of March, Japan had 0.23 GW of grid-connected BESS, according to METI. By comparison, China has 75 GW and the U.S. has installed nearly 26 GW of battery storage capacity, according to the Energy Institute.