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.
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.
According to the new regulation, large developers must install solar panels on new residential buildings with a total floor area of less than 2,000 square meters. Buildings with roof areas smaller than 20 square meters, or those unable to install solar panels due to lighting or ventilation issues, will be exempt from the requirement. About 50 developers are expected to be affected.