New Flexible Solar Panels to Power Shinkansen Stations

Feb 12, 2025 | News On Japan

AICHI, Feb 12, 2025 (News On Japan) - JR Central has unveiled ultra-thin solar panels that can be installed on noise barriers along the Tokaido Shinkansen, aiming for deployment by 2050. Measuring just about one millimeter thick, the perovskite solar panels are lightweight and flexible, allowing them to be fitted onto the curved surfaces of noise barriers.

The newly developed solar panels were showcased on February 12 at JR Central's research facility in Komaki, Aichi Prefecture.

The company focused on this application due to the Tokaido Shinkansen's east-west alignment, which results in many noise barriers facing south, maximizing their exposure to sunlight.

A representative from JR Central’s General Technology Division commented: "These solar panels can be installed in areas where conventional panels were not feasible, enabling broader adoption of renewable energy."

The electricity generated will be used to power station lighting, air conditioning, and other facilities, with full-scale implementation targeted by 2050.

Source: 東海テレビ NEWS ONE

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