TRENDE launches P2P energy trading service in Japan, Sept 2024

On September 10, 2024, TRENDE Inc., a renewable energy company in Japan, launched a commercial peer-to-peer (P2P) energy trading service. This initiative, developed in partnership with the National Federation of Agricultural Cooperative Associations (JA Group) and ITOCHU Corporation, is part of the 'Smart Agri Community' project aimed at creating a smart city. The service utilizes AI for demand forecasting and blockchain technology to facilitate direct energy transactions between prosumers with solar PV and storage systems. As the Feed-in Tariff (FIT) program contracts for solar PV systems expire, prosumers can now sell excess electricity directly to consumers via TRENDE's platform. This innovative model not only generates new revenue streams for energy producers but also allows consumers to access affordable renewable energy, promoting a circular economy of clean energy within the community. The launch has already shown promising economic benefits for all participants, highlighting the potential of locally sourced renewable energy. TRENDE's collaboration with the University of Tokyo and Toyota Motor Corporation further enhances the initiative by enabling blockchain-based energy transactions among homes, businesses, and electric vehicles, contributing to a sustainable society. TRENDE's CEO, Masashi Nishio, expressed enthusiasm for the service, emphasizing its alignment with the company's mission to foster renewable energy adoption. The partnership with JA Group and ITOCHU represents a significant advancement in decarbonization efforts and the pursuit of a sustainable energy future in Japan.