Vena Energy, a leading green solutions provider in the Asia-Pacific region, is pleased to announce that Nakasato Wind Project and Kasama Solar Project have been selected for the prestigious FY2024 Community-Based Renewable Energy Project Badge organised by the Agency for Natural Resources and Energy of Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry. This badge recognises project developers who drive outstanding renewable energy projects that promote the introduction of renewable energy while fostering co-existence with local communities and aims to encourage the widespread adoption of renewable energy projects that contribute to regional revitalisation and sustainability.
The Nakasato Wind Project began commercial operation in April 2022. From origination stage, Vena Energy has actively engaged with local residents to ensure the development and operation of a renewable energy project that integrates harmoniously with the community. As part of our commitment to regional revitalization, Vena Energy supports various community initiatives in Nakadomari Town, such as the preservation and maintenance of the Miyakoshi House Annex and Garden, the construction of the town’s comprehensive welfare and health center, as well as the promotion of smart agriculture and aquaculture projects.
Toyomitsu Hamadate, Mayor of Nakadomari Town, commented, “Congratulations on being selected for the FY2024 Community-Based Renewable Energy Project Badge. Renewable energy initiatives such as the Nakasato Wind Project represent a vital step toward achieving a decarbonized society and contribute significantly to environmental preservation in our town. We look forward to continuing our close partnership with your company in advancing these important efforts.
In Nakadomari Town, your generous contributions have supported a wide range of local initiatives, including the restoration and conservation of the historic Miyakoshi House, which is home to precious Taisho-era stained glass and the Birds and Flowers of the Four Seasons fusuma sliding panel paintings—identified as a pair to those held by the British Museum. Your support has also been instrumental in promoting smart agriculture, aquaculture, and other community-focused projects.
This project serves as a model of successful public-private collaboration that not only advances the use of renewable energy but also provides vital resources for addressing local challenges and promoting regional development. I sincerely hope that this initiative will become a leading example across the country, contributing to a more prosperous future for communities nationwide. I wish Vena Energy continued growth and success in the years ahead.”
Key initiatives and contribution activities
Cultural Heritage Preservation and Utilization: Vena Energy supported the restoration and conservation of the Miyakoshi House Annex and Garden, helping to preserve this cultural landmark. As a result, the site welcomed nearly 5,000 visitors in 2024, significantly contributing to the promotion of local tourism.
Academic Research and Cultural Value Enhancement: Vena Energy sponsored research on the fusuma sliding panel paintings of the Miyakoshi House Annex and Garden, which led to the remarkable discovery that they form a matching pair with those housed in the British Museum, further enhancing the cultural significance of the site.
Expanding Visitor Engagement through Environmental Education: Vena Energy developed an environmental education program that includes site visits to the Nakasato Wind Project, along with discussions with the town mayor. This initiative has attracted high schools and fostered educational tourism, engaging students in renewable energy and sustainability.
Support for Local Infrastructure: Vena Energy contributed to the construction and operation of “Yurapark,” a multi-purpose hot spring facility that opened in February 2024, enhancing local amenities and promoting tourism.
Strengthening Regional Resilience: Vena Energy facilitated access to wind farm maintenance roads during emergencies and organized emergency preparedness drills, bolstering the region’s disaster response capabilities.
Participation in the “Nakadomari Town Decarbonized Community Development Partnership Agreement”: Vena Energy actively participated as a local business partner in this initiative, collaborating with the municipality to advance the development of a decarbonized society.
The Kasama Solar Project began operation in September 2022, playing a pivotal role in advancing decarbonization through the expansion of renewable energy in the city. Beyond its contribution to sustainable energy, the project promotes effective land use, revitalization of non-urban areas, and the application of digital technology to build resilient, sustainable local communities. It also supports the improvement of administrative services and addresses a variety of city-wide challenges to drive regional development.
Shinju Yamaguchi, Mayor of Kasama City, commented, “Congratulations on being selected for the FY2024 Community-Based Renewable Energy Project Award. In addition to your contributions to regional development through your core renewable energy business, I would like to express my sincere gratitude for your extensive support in community-building efforts that contribute to the revitalization of our city. Kasama City is actively promoting decarbonization initiatives across multiple sectors, including disaster preparedness and the expansion of renewable energy adoption in residential areas. While concerns regarding landscape impact, disaster preparedness, and solar panel disposal have been raised alongside the expansion of solar projects, your company has demonstrated a professional approach that prioritizes community harmony and understanding, setting an exemplary model, as recognized by this award. We look forward to your continued commitment to community-focused project operations and wish your company further success in the future.”.
Key initiatives and contribution activities
Introduction of Digital Government Services: Supported the operation of the “Moving City Hall” mobile service to enhance administrative services in depopulated areas.
Infrastructure Development Support: Expanded and improved roads surrounding the solar project to enhance community accessibility and safety.
Job Creation and Economic Contribution: Established a local office, contributing to expanded employment opportunities and strengthening the regional industrial base.
Effective Use of Former School Sites: Supported the establishment and operation of a correspondence high school, enrolling over 100 students within three years.
Sustainable Community Development: Assisted in the installation of residential renewable energy generation and battery storage systems, benefiting 101 households.
Raul Rienda, Head of Japan at Vena Energy, remarked, “At Vena Energy, our mission is to accelerate the transition to clean energy while driving economic and social development and promoting environmental conservation in the communities we serve. We are truly honoured that our initiatives in Nakadomari Town and Kasama City have been recognised with the Community-Based Renewable Energy Project Award. We deeply appreciate the continued support and cooperation of local governments and residents who have been integral to this journey.
Looking ahead, we remain committed to strengthening Japan’s energy independence, accelerating the adoption of renewable energy, and advancing carbon neutrality, while further deepening our collaboration with local communities to help build a more sustainable society.”
About the Community-Based Renewable Energy Project Badge
Renewable energy projects not only contribute to reducing CO2 emissions but also play a crucial role in regional revitalization and strengthening disaster resilience. As interest in local renewable energy adoption grows among municipalities, there is increasing recognition of its potential to create jobs, support industries, boost tourism, and ensure electricity supply during disasters.
At the same time, concerns regarding solar panel disposal, landscape impact, and disaster preparedness have emerged. To further promote the adoption of renewable energy, it is essential to address these challenges and ensure harmonious integration with local communities.
Against this backdrop, the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry / Agency for Natural Resources and Energy established the Community-Based Renewable Energy Project Award. This initiative recognizes outstanding renewable energy projects that successfully co-exist with local communities. By granting the “Community Coexistence Mark” to exemplary projects, the award aims to encourage the widespread adoption of community-oriented renewable energy initiatives.
