Equinix secures 30MW solar power deal in Japan with Trina

Equinix has entered into its first renewable energy Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) in Japan with Trina Solar International Systems Business Unit, securing 30 MW of renewable electricity capacity.

The agreement, set to commence in 2028, is a 20-year commitment that will see renewable energy provided from the Yufutsu Abira Solar Project located in Hokkaido. This step is part of Equinix's broader efforts to support the addition of new renewable energy sources in their operating markets, aligning with Japan's national decarbonisation goals.

Kuniko Ogawa, Managing Director, Equinix Japan, highlighted the increasing energy demands due to digital technologies like AI and Equinix's commitment to sustainable energy solutions. "Reliance on digital technologies driven by innovations like AI continues to expand rapidly, increasing data centres' energy demands. Equinix is committed to addressing these energy challenges as sustainably as possible. Our first PPA in Japan empowers our customers to confidently pursue aggressive decarbonisation objectives, knowing the energy consumption of their data centre operations at Equinix is covered by renewable energy. By proactively investing in new renewable energy projects, Equinix is not only improving the quality of its renewable energy coverage but also helping to pave the way towards a more sustainable digital economy for Japan," she said.

This PPA supports the company's strategy of enhancing renewable energy procurement quality in Japan by contributing additional locally sourced renewable capacity to the energy grid. Equinix aims to improve the quality and impact of the renewable energy it procures as part of its global sustainability objectives.

Feng Chen, Representative Director and Country Head at Trina Solar ISBU Japan, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration with Equinix. "We are delighted to partner with Equinix on this milestone PPA, marking ISBU Japan's first corporate solar power agreement. This collaboration underscores our commitment to delivering sustainable energy solutions and supporting Japan's transition to clean power. The Hokkaido solar farm will contribute to Equinix's renewable energy initiatives while reinforcing our vision of advancing solar development in Japan. We look forward to more partnerships driving the country's green energy future," he stated.

Equinix has already achieved 100% renewable energy coverage for its Japan operations. The new agreement is expected to enhance the renewable energy quality further by contributing new renewable capacity to the local power grid. The project in Hokkaido is part of the company's efforts to continually improve the quality and impact of the renewable energy procured.

This development marks a significant move for Equinix in Japan, a market considered challenging for renewable energy procurement. By engaging in this PPA, Equinix is taking proactive measures to address the energy challenges associated with its growing digital infrastructure needs.