DIC Announces Plans to Install Megasolar System at the Kashima Plant —Greater use of recycled energy will reinforce efforts to combat global warming—

Tokyo, Japan–DIC Corporation announced that it has resolved to install a new megasolar system on idle land at its Kashima Plant, an organic pigments production facility located in Ibaraki Prefecture, with the aim of reducing emissions of CO2, a major cause of global warming. The new system, which will produce electric power for use within the plant, will have a total capacity of 1,600 kW (annual output: 1,700 MWh) and is expected to reduce the plant’s annual CO2 emissions by approximately 3.0% from the fiscal year 2016 level. Installation will begin in August 2017, with completion scheduled for January 2018.

In fiscal year 2016, the DIC Group set a medium-term target for reducing absolute emissions of greenhouse gases by 7.0% from the fiscal 2013 level by fiscal year 2020, or an average of 1.0% annually. The Kashima Plant’s new megasolar system will contribute to a 0.2% reduction for the Group from fiscal year 2013 level.

The Kashima Plant has already introduced a cogeneration system and recycled energy and has taken steps to ensure an optimal mix for purchased electric power. Of particular note, to promote the use of recycled energy, the plant has installed a biomass boiler, as well as wind and solar power facilities, and has thus played a substantial role in the DIC Group’s efforts to combat global warming. These moves have enabled the plant to shrink its annual CO2 emissions by 25,900 metric tonnes. The new megasolar system is expected to facilitate a further annual CO2 reduction of 1,200 metric tonnes.

As part of its sustainability program, the DIC Group is promoting ongoing measures to lower emissions of CO2 from its plants, research facilities and offices. Looking ahead, the Group will continue working to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions on a global basis, thereby contributing to the realization of a sustainable society.

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