The US Embassy in Tokyo (pictured) has plans to source its power from the sun in a bid to help its host nation’s shift towards renewable energy.

The solar system will include 900 solar panels connected directly to the grid and electricity from it will be sold via a power purchase agreement (PPA) in collaboration with Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry’s Feed-in Tariff programme. It is expected to generate 321,100 kWh of electricity every year, enough to power 6,500 homes over 20 years.

US PV manufacturer Suniva will provide the panels and ABC Solar will monitor and maintain the solar system.

Scott Clucas, Facilities Director at the US Embassy in Tokyo said: “ABC Solar helped us create long-term value from our roofs. Our building’s electrical usage and utility payments will be offset by income created from the sun’s energy – that is then sent to the Japanese electricity consumer.”