Epson is set to build its first biomass power plant in Iida City, Nagano Prefecture, Japan, aiming for operation by the fiscal year ending in March 2027. The company is working on acquiring land, arranging construction, and completing necessary documentation for power generation.
Epson’s goal to become carbon negative and eliminate the use of underground resources by 2050 is driving this initiative. As part of its commitment, the company transitioned to 100% renewable electricity across all its global sites by December 2023.
The biomass plant will enable Epson to generate its own renewable energy, reducing its reliance on external electricity suppliers and encouraging the adoption of green energy.
“Sustainability and environmental concerns play a pivotal role in shaping the printer manufacturing industry, and Epson has been attuned to the escalating demand for eco-conscious printing solutions. With businesses and individuals increasingly prioritizing measures to diminish their carbon footprint, the establishment of a biomass power plant seamlessly aligns with Epson’s steadfast dedication to sustainability,” noted Mukesh Bector, Regional Head for East and West Africa.
The electricity generated will be sold to the market under a feed-in premium [FIP] scheme, and Epson will convert the electricity that it uses into renewable electricity by leveraging the environmental value created through power generation. Moreover, the power is expected to be supplied to local facilities in the event of a disaster or other emergency.
Utilizing non-fossil fuel sources like unused wood and other organic materials, the project supports forest maintenance and meets RE100 technical criteria for renewable energy. Epson plans for a sustainable future by advancing renewable energy usage, lowering energy consumption, and promoting resource recycling as part of its Environmental Vision 2050.
