Japan Semiconductor Inks Virtual PPA for Power from Major Floating Solar Plant

Japan Semiconductor Secures Renewable Energy from World-Class Floating Solar Facility

January 2, 2026

In a significant move for the energy-intensive semiconductor industry, Japan Semiconductor, the core manufacturing subsidiary of Toshiba, has entered a virtual Power Purchase Agreement (vPPA) to source renewable energy from one of the world's largest operational floating solar projects. The deal underscores the growing pressure on chipmakers to decarbonize their operations and secure long-term, clean power to meet both corporate sustainability goals and rising customer expectations.

The agreement, finalized with Kunishitaike Mega Float (KMF), will see Japan Semiconductor acquire environmental attribute certificates linked to the 7.8-megawatt Kunishitaike floating solar plant in Miki Town, Kagawa Prefecture. The facility, which reached commercial operation in December 2025, is recognized as one of the largest of its kind globally. Under the contract, KMF's parent company, OTS, will supply the environmental value derived from the solar plant's output.

The transaction was facilitated through "RE Bridge," an auction platform operated by energy aggregator Digital Grid that connects corporate buyers with renewable energy sellers. Japan Semiconductor estimates the vPPA will support its efforts to reduce annual greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 4,173 tons.

This agreement is a strategic component of parent company Toshiba's broader commitment to achieve 100 percent renewable electricity at its manufacturing sites by 2030. The move aligns with a clear industry trend, where semiconductor manufacturers are increasingly turning to long-term PPAs to lock in clean energy and manage costs. Recent examples include Infineon's agreements in Germany and STMicroelectronics' 43-megawatt PPA in France, highlighting a competitive race towards sustainable production in a sector critical to the global digital economy.

Source: datacenterdynamics