Lightsource bp enters Japanese market with 15MW solar acquisition

Renewable energy developer Lightsource bp has entered the Japanese market with the acquisition of a 15MWp solar project in Hokkaido, marking the company's expansion in the APAC region.

The acquisition forms part of Lightsource bp’s broader APAC growth strategy and lays the groundwork for further growth in the region.

Adam Pegg, chief operating officer for APAC at Lightsource bp, commented: “Our entry into Japan reflects our commitment to contributing to the region’s energy transition. By combining our international experience with local partnerships, we aim to support Japan’s renewable energy goals while building a strong and sustainable pipeline of renewable energy projects. This is just the beginning of our operations in Japan, and we’re excited to support the nation’s ambition for a low-carbon future.

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“As a global organisation, our success depends on fostering collaboration and creating long-term value for the communities we work with,” Pegg added. “We’re committed to building partnerships in Japan that deliver shared benefits – for the economy, the environment, local communities, and our partners.”

Lightsource bp has a global solar development pipeline of over 58GW of mature and early-stage projects, of which nearly 8GW are in APAC.

The Japanese renewable energy strategy aims to increase solar capacity as part of its broader commitment to decarbonisation and energy diversification.

According to independent think tank Ember, Japan still relies heavily on fossil fuels in its energy mix, however, the country's largest source of clean electricity is solar (11%).