For those planning to build new homes, you might have heard about the upcoming mandate on solar panel installation. Starting April 2025, Tokyo will implement a new regulation requiring solar panels on newly constructed homes.
What Is the Mandatory Solar Panel Installation?
Starting in April 2025, Tokyo will require installing solar panels on all new residential buildings. This initiative is part of the “Carbon Half” goal, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Tokyo by 50% by 2030 through the expansion of renewable energy usage.
The regulation applies to new residential buildings supplied by major house manufacturers (small to medium-sized buildings with a total floor area of less than 2,000 square meters). The obligation targets large housing providers with an annual total floor supply area of 20,000 square meters or more within Tokyo.
This mandate only applies to new buildings, excluding existing ones. Even among eligible homes, there might be exceptions due to roof conditions like small areas or north-facing orientation.
Utilizing Tokyo’s Subsidy Program for Cost-Effective Solar Panel Installation
A significant concern when mandatory solar panel installation is mentioned is the cost. Tokyo offers subsidies for solar panel installation, providing up to ¥120,000 per kilowatt (maximum ¥360,000). For panels exceeding 3.6 kilowatts, the subsidy is ¥100,000 per kilowatt.
Additionally, Tokyo supports the “Tokyo Zero Emission Housing” initiative, promoting energy-efficient homes with improved insulation. This program requires meeting specific conditions and may offer subsidies ranging from ¥200,000 to ¥2,100,000. Combining this with the solar panel subsidy could mean receiving up to ¥2,460,000 in total subsidies.
Installing solar panels not only reduces monthly electricity bills but also ensures power availability during outages. Check the conditions and see how much subsidy you can receive.
Mandatory Solar Panels from April 2025: Use the System to Save Money
Tokyo will require solar panel installation on new homes starting April 2025. While the installation cost falls on the residents, using the subsidy programs can reduce the financial burden.
Since specific conditions are defined for utilizing the subsidy, those considering solar panel installation should verify how much subsidy they can receive in advance.
