Tokyo government requires new detached homes to have rooftop solar panels. (Photo: iStock)
To increase the proportion of renewable energy generation, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government will set a precedent by requiring new detached homes to install rooftop solar panels.
This new regulation is expected to apply to one out of every two newly constructed buildings, but the high installation costs have raised concerns that it may further drive up local housing prices.
New detached homes must have solar panels starting April
Tokyo's goal is to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, with plans to increase the share of renewable energy generation to 50% by 2030. However, due to limited land space, it is difficult to implement large-scale renewable energy facilities. Therefore, under the leadership of Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike, from April 2025, all newly constructed detached homes will be required to have rooftop solar power systems.
