Solar power boom in Japan

Domestic shipments of solar cells and modules highest in the last 30 years.

The Japan Photovoltaic Energy Association said local shipments rose to 3,809 MW in the 12 months ended March 31 from 1,404 MW the previous year. The increase was the largest since 1981 when figures were compiled for the first time.

The data underscore the popularity of solar in Japan following the Fukushima nuclear accident that led to the shutdown of almost all Japan’s nuclear reactors. Japan began offering above-market rates in July 2012 for renewable sources such as solar and wind.

The generous feed-in tariffs are boosting applications for solar installations across the country. The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry approved 12,258 megawatts worth of residential and non-residential solar projects in February. That accounts for 94% of all applications for clean energy tariffs since the program started.

Approved solar projects are the equal to almost half of Japan’s installed capacity of clean energy in 2012.