Panasonic Corporation is currently piloting an advanced energy management system (EMS) in the Tokyo metropolitan area, aiming to significantly increase the self-consumption of solar energy within homes and businesses. This initiative integrates residential photovoltaic (PV) systems with heat pumps and battery storage, utilizing Panasonic's Home Energy Management System (HEMS) and Building Energy Management System (BEMS) batteries.
The pilot program involves 100 homes and 20 businesses and is conducted in collaboration with ENEOS, a major energy provider. Through ENEOS's solar power purchase service, the EMS remotely orchestrates the operation of storage batteries, heat pump water heaters, and air conditioning units. The primary goal is to optimize the utilization of solar power, thereby boosting the self-consumption rate of renewable energy. This aligns with ENEOS's strategic shift towards low-carbon energy sources, including increased investments in liquefied natural gas (LNG) and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
Panasonic's commitment to energy efficiency is further demonstrated through its partnership with tado°, integrating Panasonic's heat pumps with tado°'s intelligent thermostats. Smart thermostats, like those from tado°, are recognized for their ability to enhance energy efficiency by learning user routines and adjusting heating and cooling systems accordingly. Studies suggest that smart thermostats can lead to energy cost savings of 8-15%, according to the EPA, and potentially 10-15% according to other analyses, contributing to reduced CO₂ emissions and overall energy consumption. The U.S. Department of Energy also estimates that programmable thermostats can yield annual savings of up to 10% on heating and cooling costs, with smart thermostats offering greater potential through adaptive learning and remote control.
These pilot projects in Tokyo are expected to yield valuable insights into the operational viability and profitability of such integrated energy management systems. The findings will pave the way for broader adoption, supporting Japan's broader decarbonization goals and empowering individuals and businesses to actively participate in the transition to a more sustainable energy landscape.