7 AFFORDABLE AND CLEAN ENERGY

Affordable and Clean Energy

Affordable and Clean Energy

As one of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, SDG 7 aims to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all.
This goal highlights the importance of clean energy as a foundation for social and economic development, environmental protection, and climate action. Universities play a critical role in advancing renewable energy technologies, promoting energy efficiency, and fostering awareness of sustainable energy practices.

Hokkaido University, guided by this global vision, promotes the transition to a decarbonized society through research, education, and institutional action.
The University conducts cutting-edge research on renewable and low-carbon energy systems—including hydrogen, biomass, and wind power—while advancing energy-saving technologies and sustainable campus operations. By collaborating with industry, government, and local communities, Hokkaido University contributes to building a cleaner and more resilient energy future, both in Japan and around the world.

University Measures Towards Affordable and Clean Energy

7.2.1: Energy-efficient renovation and building

Overview (2024)

Hokkaido University promotes sustainable campus development by applying energy efficiency standards for new buildings and energy efficiency standards for renovations. The university has introduced facility design standards and campus development policies to ensure a clear commitment to energy efficient designs. By integrating energy-saving technologies, Hokkaido University reduces its environmental impact and provides a model for sustainable infrastructure in cold, snowy regions.

Key Initiatives
  • University Facility Design Standards (2021 Revision)

    Hokkaido University has established "Facility Design Standards" that set criteria to prioritize energy efficiency in architecture, fixtures, electrical systems, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning). These standards apply to both basic and detailed design phases of campus facilities, ensuring that energy-saving measures are consistently implemented from design through operation.

  • Sustainable Campus Development Policy

    In 2024, Hokkaido University published the Ambitious Bond Sustainability/Blue Bond Framework, which clarifies its policy to meet energy efficiency requirements in new construction and renovation projects. The university promotes facilities equipped with renewable energy systems, the adoption of ZEB standards and energy performance evaluations, and the acquisition of environmental certifications such as CASBEE, LEED, and DBJ Green Building.

Impact

Through these initiatives, Hokkaido University has advanced the consistent application of energy efficiency standards for new buildings and energy efficiency standards for renovations. Its clear commitment to energy efficient designs strengthens the sustainability of campus operations and serves as a reference for institutions in cold climate regions.

7.2.2: Upgrade buildings to higher energy efficiency

Overview (2024)

Hokkaido University is promoting sustainable campus development by upgrading existing buildings to higher energy efficiency standards. Through comprehensive planning and ongoing initiatives, the university aims to reduce energy consumption, lower carbon emissions, and foster a culture of sustainability. Hokkaido University continues to work toward creating a resilient and environmentally responsible campus.

Key Initiatives
  • Renewable Energy Utilization and ZEB Building Energy Saving Promotion Plan

    Based on the principles of "HU VISION 2030," the university promotes the installation of renewable energy facilities, the acquisition of ZEB-equivalent buildings, and the introduction of CASBEE, LEED, and DBJ-certified buildings. These efforts improve the energy efficiency of existing buildings and contribute to realizing a sustainable and well-being-oriented society.
    https://www.hokudai.ac.jp/pr/pdf/Ambitiousbond_framework.pdf (p.10 "Green Eligible Criteria")

  • Energy-Efficient Renovation Projects

    Hokkaido University has been implementing energy-efficient renovation projects, including the renovation of the Information Initiative Center (South Building) to achieve ZEB Oriented standards. Furthermore, the Fisheries Museum and the Library were integrated into the new Fisheries Science Library and Museum Complex, which has obtained ZEB Ready certification. Through these initiatives, the university promotes campus-wide energy efficiency and the creation of a sustainable environment.

  • Hokkaido University Campus Master Plan

    The "Campus Master Plan" outlines a long-term vision for campus development, emphasizing the importance of improving energy efficiency standards across all university facilities. It also addresses the unique challenges of Hokkaido’s cold climate by promoting solutions tailored to local conditions.

Impact

These ongoing initiatives have advanced the university’s efforts to create a more energy-efficient and sustainable campus. By combining long-term planning with practical renovation measures, Hokkaido University has achieved measurable reductions in energy consumption and carbon emissions. The university will continue to promote affordable and clean energy solutions within the academic sector.

7.2.3: Carbon reduction and emission reduction process

Overview (2024)

Hokkaido University is advancing sustainable energy management and reducing carbon dioxide emissions through a comprehensive process for carbon management and carbon reduction. Through various initiatives, the university works to minimize its environmental impact, improve energy efficiency, and foster a campus-wide culture of sustainability. These initiatives align with local and global goals for affordable and clean energy, while enabling the university community to participate in the transition toward a low-carbon society.
As a university-wide initiative, Hokkaido University has established an institutional process for carbon management and emission reduction, implemented through the Institute for the Advancement of Sustainability.

Key Initiatives
  • University GHG Inventory and Carbon Management

    Hokkaido University formulated its “GHG Inventory” in October 2024 based on the international GHG Protocol. The inventory calculates emissions of seven greenhouse gases, including CO₂, classified into Scope 1, 2, and 3 across all campuses. By clearly presenting calculation methods and raw data, and including Scope 3 emissions, this represents a pioneering achievement as the first case at an institutional level outside a national inventory. By understanding actual emission conditions and monitoring year-on-year trends, the university evaluates and verifies climate change countermeasures. Regular publication and reporting will continue to enhance the effectiveness of carbon management and emission reduction processes.

  • Organizational Structure for Carbon Management at Hokkaido University

    Hokkaido University prepares a GHG inventory and tracks greenhouse gas emissions. Based on this data, carbon management is promoted through two divisions within the Institute for the Advancement of Sustainability: the “Campus Management Division” and the newly established “Carbon Neutral Promotion Division,” launched in June 2024. The former promotes the creation of a sustainable campus, while the latter implements emission reduction measures, together advancing carbon management across the university.

  • Energy Management and Energy-Saving Measures

    The university continues to implement energy-saving measures to reduce its environmental impact. These include the use of centralized air-conditioning controllers and the renovation of the Information Infrastructure Center (South Building) to meet ZEB Oriented (Zero Energy Building equivalent) environmental performance standards. Energy-saving practice materials, such as the “Energy Conservation Guidelines” and seasonal “Check Sheets” (summer and winter versions), are distributed annually across the university to promote consistent action.

Impact

These initiatives have strengthened the university’s process for carbon management and carbon dioxide emissions reduction. The formulation of the GHG Inventory and establishment of the carbon management framework have created a systematic and verifiable foundation for emissions reduction. The introduction of technologies such as ZEB renovations has contributed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Continuous energy management and the distribution of energy-saving materials have encouraged participation by students, faculty, and staff, fostering environmental awareness. These efforts support the university’s sustainability goals and provide a clear plan for ongoing carbon reduction progress.

7.2.4: Plan to reduce energy consumption

Overview (2024)

Hokkaido University promotes sustainable campus operations through an energy efficiency plan aimed at reducing overall energy consumption. By implementing comprehensive energy management systems, environmental impact reduction measures, and fostering a culture of sustainability, the university strives to minimise its carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner, affordable energy future.
These initiatives are integrated across facilities and operations, ensuring that energy efficiency measures are embedded in both daily practices and long-term strategies.

Key Initiatives
  • Energy Efficiency and Environmental Impact Reduction Plan

    As part of building a Sustainable Campus, the university promotes systematic activities such as energy-saving practices and proper waste management. Energy consumption is visualized across the campus, enabling efficient use through continuous management cycles. Awareness-raising activities are also carried out to encourage participation by faculty, staff, and students.

  • Organizational Framework for Energy Efficiency and Environmental Consideration

    The university has established the Institute for the Advancement of Sustainability, led by the Executive Vice President, to systematically advance energy efficiency and environmental impact reduction. The Campus Management Division, SDGs Initiative Division, and Carbon Neutrality Initiative Division work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders to promote sustainable campus development, including energy consumption reduction and proper waste management.
    In addition, the university measures decade-long trends in greenhouse gas emissions and compiles a GHG inventory — a systematic record of the university’s greenhouse gas emissions over the past decade — to enable science-based energy management and continuous improvement toward sustainable university operations.

  • Energy Efficiency Plan to Reduce Overall Energy Consumption

    Campus-wide energy management includes the utilisation of centralized air conditioning controllers across the university. This initiative, implemented as part of the “University-wide Thorough Energy Management” action under the Campus Master Plan 2018, promotes thorough energy management by optimizing air conditioner operation through timer controls, achieving steady energy savings without additional costs.
    In addition, the university promotes environmentally responsible design and renovation of major facilities based on ZEB (Net Zero Energy Building) standards.
    The ICReDD Building (North Campus Research Building No. 8, completed in 2023 on the Sapporo Campus) and the Fisheries Science Library and Museum Complex (completed in 2024 on the Hakodate Campus) are certified as ZEB Ready, each achieving more than a 50% reduction in energy consumption compared with previous facilities.
    Furthermore, the Information Initiative Center (South Building), renovated in 2024, achieved ZEB Oriented-level performance (BEI ≤ 0.6), demonstrating high environmental efficiency and contributing to continuous improvement in energy efficiency across the university.

Impact

Through these initiatives, the university continues to reduce its environmental impact.
Systematic energy management, data-based GHG monitoring, and awareness-raising activities have contributed to measurable decreases in greenhouse gas emissions.
By combining structural measures with data-driven management and community participation, Hokkaido University maintains steady progress toward a more energy-efficient and sustainable future.

7.2.5: Energy wastage identification

Overview (2024)

Hokkaido University advances sustainable campus operations by identifying energy waste and conducting systematic energy reviews. Through real-time monitoring and transparent reporting, the university continuously optimizes energy consumption and supports the transition toward a low-carbon, energy-efficient campus. Participation in international disclosure initiatives such as the CDP provides external assessment, reinforcing accountability and ongoing improvement in energy management.

Key Initiatives
  • Energy Consumption Monitoring

    Hokkaido University has introduced a system that visualizes electricity use in real time. Power consumption data is collected by department and made accessible to all members of the university through the internal network. This system enables everyone to recognize current energy use, detect waste early, and promote energy-saving actions.

  • Participation in the CDP

    Since 2022, Hokkaido University has been the first national university in Japan to respond to the CDP Climate Change Questionnaire, disclosing environmental impacts on an international platform. It has maintained a “B” score (Management Level) each year through 2024. This initiative enhances transparency, allows external evaluation, and promotes continuous improvement in energy management.

Impact

These ongoing initiatives strengthen the university’s ability to identify and reduce energy waste. The integration of real-time monitoring and external disclosure through the CDP functions both as an internal review and as an external verification mechanism. By embedding guidelines to identify energy waste into daily operations, Hokkaido University continues to provide a practical model for sustainable energy management in higher education.

7.2.6: Divestment Policy

Overview (2024)

Hokkaido University is committed to advancing sustainable energy practices and reducing its environmental footprint through a consistent divestment policy. By minimizing investments in carbon-intensive energy industries, such as coal and oil, the university shows its continued commitment to a sustainable future. Through transparent investment policies, Hokkaido University fosters a culture of environmental responsibility and supports the global transition to affordable and clean energy.

Key Initiatives
  • Promotion of Environmentally Conscious Contracts

    In accordance with national guidelines, Hokkaido University prioritizes contracts that emphasize reducing greenhouse gas emissions each year. This policy reflects the university’s strong commitment to environmental sustainability.

  • Promotion of Green Procurement

    Hokkaido University has consistently advanced environmentally conscious procurement based on its “Policy for the Promotion of Procurement of Environmentally Friendly Goods and Services.” In 2024, the university continued to procure items such as energy-efficient equipment and recycled products under this policy, focusing on goods that help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Through this approach, the university continues to reduce its dependence on carbon-intensive industries and enhance environmental sustainability.

  • Redirecting Funds to Renewable Energy and a Low-Carbon Society

    Instead of investing in carbon-intensive industries such as coal and oil, Hokkaido University allocates funds under its Sustainability/Blue Bond Framework toward renewable energy, energy-efficient buildings, carbon neutrality, and research supporting a low-carbon society (e.g., green semiconductors and seaweed cultivation). This policy effectively serves as a divestment from fossil fuel industries.

Impact

Through these ongoing initiatives, Hokkaido University has reduced its investments in carbon-intensive energy industries and enhanced transparency in its divestment policy. The implementation of environmentally conscious contracts, green procurement, and the redirection of funds toward renewable energy and low-carbon research have contributed to lowering the university’s carbon footprint. These measures reinforce the university’s role in supporting a sustainable energy transition and promoting responsible investment practices.

Energy and the Community

7.4.1: Local community outreach for energy efficiency

Overview (2024)

In 2024, Hokkaido University advanced energy efficiency and the adoption of clean energy through educational outreach and community engagement programmes. By providing programmes for local community to learn about energy efficiency and clean energy, the university enabled citizens, students, and stakeholders to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to a sustainable, low-carbon society.
In addition, the university collaborated with municipalities, companies, and regional partners through GX-related initiatives, linking education, finance, and clean energy to promote a carbon-neutral future.
These initiatives fostered understanding of energy efficiency and clean energy, encouraging behavioral change and participation in the transition toward a carbon-neutral society.

Key Initiatives
  • Collaborative SDGs and Zero-Carbon Projects with High Schools

    In partnership with local high schools, Hokkaido University supported projects where students explored regional issues related to SDGs and zero-carbon goals. Through workshops and fieldwork, students developed research skills and shared their findings with the community, promoting programmes for local community to learn about energy efficiency.

  • Promotion of GX and Renewable Energy through Regional and International Outreach

    In 2024, Hokkaido University advanced its commitment to green transformation (GX) and renewable energy by linking regional collaboration with international dialogue.
    At the 20th World Winter Cities Association for Mayors, Professor Satoru Kato from the SDGs Promotion Division delivered a lecture titled “GX Initiatives by Hokkaido University,” presenting the university’s approach to implementing social systems that achieve both nature-positive and community-positive outcomes.
    The conference provided an international platform for discussing energy challenges faced by winter cities, and Hokkaido University contributed academic insight on renewable energy and sustainable urban development.
    Building on these initiatives, the university established the Renewable Energy Research & Education Center (REREC) in June 2024 as a joint project hub to promote research, education, and community collaboration in renewable energy.
    At the public kickoff event, “Future of Regional Renewable Energy: Toward Nature-Positive and Community-Positive Realization,” citizens, students, and local stakeholders engaged in dialogue about Hokkaido’s renewable energy potential and actions toward carbon neutrality.
    Through these efforts, Hokkaido University provided programmes for local community to learn about clean energy and energy efficiency, fostering cross-sector collaboration and enhancing public understanding of GX and sustainable energy use.

  • Participation in the GX and Finance Consortium “Team Sapporo-Hokkaido”

    Hokkaido University participated in the GX and Finance Consortium “Team Sapporo-Hokkaido” to promote regional collaboration for green transformation (GX).
    At the student symposium “The Future Connecting Hokkaido’s GX and Economy,” keynote lectures and panel discussions provided opportunities to learn about energy efficiency and clean energy, fostering understanding of the region’s GX-driven sustainable future.

  • Future-Oriented Workshop: Decarbonization and Sustainable Energy

    In collaboration with local governments and companies, Hokkaido University organized the three-day “Future-Oriented Workshop on Decarbonization and Sustainable Energy.”
    As part of its educational outreach on energy efficiency and clean energy, the university hosted site visits to energy facilities and workshops where students examined local decarbonization initiatives and proposed actions toward achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
    The university’s Institute for the Promotion of Sustainability also provided expert commentary and guidance during the programme.

Impact

These educational and outreach programmes in 2024 enhanced regional understanding of energy efficiency, clean energy, and GX collaboration. By offering opportunities for learning and participation, Hokkaido University ensured inclusivity and access to scientific knowledge.
The integration of workshops, collaborative projects, and GX-focused initiatives encouraged behavioral change and strengthened the foundation for a sustainable local community.
Through its continued promotion of programmes for local community to learn about energy efficiency and clean energy, the university contributed to realizing a carbon-neutral society through education and regional engagement.

7.4.2: Public Pledge Toward 100% Renewable Energy

Overview (2024)

Hokkaido University promotes the transition to 100% renewable energy through public pledges and outreach campaigns on renewable energy.
In August 2024, the university announced the Hokkaido University Sustainability Declaration, demonstrating an institutional commitment to achieving a decarbonized society.
The declaration was publicly disseminated through the university’s website and outreach networks, encouraging participation from local communities and stakeholders.
Through collaboration with local governments, industry partners, and community organizations, the university continues to encourage public participation and policy awareness toward a carbon-neutral future.

Key Initiatives
  • Hokkaido University Sustainability Declaration: Commitment to a Carbon-Neutral Future

    On August 1, 2024, Hokkaido University formulated the Hokkaido University Sustainability Declaration, publicly committing to contribute to Japan’s national greenhouse gas reduction goals.
    The declaration was released to the public and local communities through university channels, reinforcing its outreach beyond the campus.
    This declaration expresses the university’s determination to realize a decarbonized society as part of its comprehensive sustainability initiatives.

  • REREC Kickoff: Pioneering the Future of Renewable Energy

    Hokkaido University established the Renewable Energy Research & Education Center (REREC) in June 2024 to promote renewable energy research and human resource development.
    On August 8, the university held a kickoff event emphasizing coexistence with the local community and natural environment, and shared discussions on renewable energy adoption.

  • Public Symposiums and International Conferences on Carbon Neutrality

    In 2024, Hokkaido University actively advanced public dialogue on renewable energy and carbon neutrality through national and international events.
    At the 20th World Winter Cities Association for Mayors (December 2024), Professor Satoru Kato presented the university’s initiatives for Green Transformation (GX), including the establishment of the Renewable Energy Research and Education Center (REREC) and the vision of fostering talent to lead global decarbonization.
    Earlier in the year, at the 69th National University Institutes and Centers Symposium (September 2024), the university introduced the Hokkaido University Sustainability Declaration and shared its integrated approach to research and education for sustainability.
    In January 2024, during the Hokkaido Future Regional Transport Workshop hosted by the Public Service Corporation Northern Advancement Center for Science and Technology, Vice President Atsushi Yokota delivered a keynote speech highlighting GX collaboration with local governments and industry.
    Through these outreach events to promote 100% renewable energy, the university expanded public understanding and collaboration beyond the campus.

Impact

Through these initiatives-including the Sustainability Declaration, outreach campaigns, and events to promote 100% renewable energy-Hokkaido University has strengthened public engagement and policy awareness regarding renewable energy.
By fostering collaboration among academia, government, industry, and citizens, the university continues to demonstrate leadership in advancing renewable energy and supporting sustainable regional development.

7.4.3: Energy efficiency services for industry

Overview (2024)

Hokkaido University provides direct services to local industries to enhance clean energy practices and improve energy efficiency. These services include free and paid energy efficiency assessments, technical consultations, and collaborative research projects. By delivering tailored support and fostering partnerships, the university promotes renewable energy adoption, capacity building, and sustainable industrial development.

Key Initiatives
  • Support for Carbon Neutrality in Regional Industries through Engineering Expertise

    The Faculty of Engineering at Hokkaido University has signed a collaboration agreement with Hokkaido Gas Co., Ltd. under the theme “Creating a Comfortable Society through the Optimization of Energy and the Environment.” This agreement aims to support the realization of a carbon-neutral society and contribute to solving regional challenges. It includes research and technology exchange, education programs on advanced energy and environmental technologies, promotion of human resource exchange, and consideration of establishing an industry-academia collaboration lab. Through these efforts, the university directly promotes energy efficiency diagnostics, renewable energy introduction support, and human resource development for local industries.

  • Workshop by the Hokkaido Offshore Wind Academy Consortium

    On December 12, 2024, a workshop titled “Development of Offshore Wind Projects and Human Resource Cultivation in Hokkaido” was held at the Clark Memorial Hall of Hokkaido University. The event was organized by the Hokkaido Offshore Wind Academy Consortium (HOA), of which Hokkaido University is a member, and was conducted in a free hybrid format, both on-site and online. Based on the results of the previous year’s project survey, the workshop offered an introductory and comprehensive lecture on offshore wind energy. Through this initiative, Hokkaido University contributes to advancing offshore wind research and fostering human resources for a sustainable energy transition in Hokkaido.

  • Cultural Enrichment Program “Future-Oriented Workshop: Decarbonization and Sustainable Energy” Held in Collaboration with the City of Sapporo

    Hokkaido University’s Cultural Enrichment Program, the Institute for the Advancement of Sustainability, the Office of Public Relations and Social Collaboration, and the Environmental Bureau of the City of Sapporo co-hosted the free “Future-Oriented Workshop: Decarbonization and Sustainable Energy” on August 28, September 3, and September 4. The workshop aimed to explore new approaches and actions for achieving decarbonization and sustainable energy by combining the knowledge of students with diverse academic backgrounds, while learning from Sapporo City’s initiatives in these areas.

  • Implementation of Practical Learning and Workshops to Promote Decarbonization and Renewable Energy Utilization in Local Industries

    The SDGs Initiative Division of the Institute for the Advancement of Sustainability, Hokkaido University, conducted the Carbon Neutral Summer Short-term Learning Program in collaboration with Sapporo City, Shimokawa Town, Housei University, and Kansai University. The program aimed to enhance understanding of energy efficiency improvement and the use of renewable energy in local communities. Through visits to power plants and woody biomass facilities, students learned about regional initiatives, and during workshops, they discussed challenges and strategies for achieving decarbonization together with representatives from local governments and companies.

Impact

These initiatives have improved the capacity of local industries to adopt clean energy and enhance energy efficiency. By providing direct services such as efficiency assessments, consultations, and industry collaborations, Hokkaido University ensures that businesses can access practical solutions and expertise. The university plays a key role in advancing sustainability and supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

7.4.4: Policy development for clean energy technology

Overview (2024)

Hokkaido University supports the transition to clean energy and energy-efficient technologies by informing and assisting governments at local, regional, national, and global levels. Through expert participation, collaborative research, and international alliances, the university provides evidence-based recommendations and technical expertise for effective energy policy. These contributions aim at developing sustainable energy systems and supporting decarbonization efforts in line with global climate goals.

Key Initiatives
  • Contribution to Carbon Neutral Policy

    Hokkaido University participates in the government-led “University Coalition for Carbon Neutrality,” organized by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), and the Ministry of the Environment (MOE).
    Learn more (External Site)
    The university collaborates with local governments and industries to build decarbonization models and provides scientific knowledge for clean energy and energy efficiency policy. Since the coalition’s launch in July 2021, the university has served as the secretariat for one of the five working groups, the International Collaboration and Cooperation Working Group, supporting policy development for clean and energy-efficient technologies.
    Learn more (External Site)

  • Contribution to Regional Policy Formation for Zero Carbon

    In Hokkaido, the “New Hokkaido Comprehensive Plan” has been formulated, setting zero carbon as a core direction. During the deliberations for the plan’s formulation, the Hokkaido Comprehensive Development Committee was convened, chaired by the President of Hokkaido University, with faculty members participating as experts. The university contributed actively to regional policy development by providing scientific insights and guidance on clean energy and energy efficiency policies.
    Learn more (External Site)

  • Contribution to Local Policy Development

    Professor Kazuei Ishii, Head of the Carbon Neutrality Initiative Division at Hokkaido University’s Institute for the Advancement of Sustainability, participates in expert committees organized by the Ministry of the Environment and various local governments.
    These include the Expert Committee on Renewable Energy and Hydrogen Systems toward Carbon Neutrality, the Regional Global Warming Action Plan Formulation Committee, the Zero Carbon City Promotion Strategy Committee (Chair), the Renewable Energy Promotion Committee (Chair), and the Basic Renewable Energy Strategy Committee (Chairperson).
    Through his contributions, Hokkaido University provides scientific expertise and collaborates with both the Ministry and local governments to support the development of regional energy policies.

  • International University Alliances for Climate Action

    As a member of the International Universities Climate Alliance (IUCA), the university contributed to global policy dialogue by providing research-based recommendations to world leaders, including G20 heads of state.
    https://www.global.hokudai.ac.jp/wp/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/guidebook-2024.pdf#page=55 (Refer to the section titled “International Consortia” at the bottom of page 53.)

Impact

Through participation in national coalitions, regional and local policymaking, and international university networks, Hokkaido University continues to play an active role in informing and supporting governments in clean energy and energy-efficient technology policy development. Its scientific knowledge and advisory roles directly contribute to effective policy development and help accelerate the transition toward a sustainable, low-carbon society.

7.4.5: Assistance to Low-Carbon Innovation

Overview (2024)

Hokkaido University supports the advancement of a low-carbon economy and innovative technologies through entrepreneurship assistance and collaborative programs. By bridging the gap between research outcomes and commercialization, the university contributes to energy transition and decarbonization while leveraging regional characteristics. These efforts provide a foundation for entrepreneurs, students, and local communities to access sustainable energy solutions and represent direct assistance to low carbon innovation.

Key Initiatives
  • Entrepreneurial Support Addressing Decarbonization and Next-Generation Energy Challenges

    The Hokkaido Startup Future Creation Development by Mutual Support Networks (HSFC, also known as H-Force) is a wide-area platform connecting universities, research institutions, colleges of technology, local governments, and financial institutions across Hokkaido and nationwide to foster and support research-based start-ups. As the principal institution, Hokkaido University plays a central role in organizing and leading HSFC, driving the social implementation of research outcomes and supporting start-ups that contribute to regional innovation. Within HSFC, the GAP Fund Program is operated as a form of entrepreneurial support to bridge the gap between research outcomes and their social implementation. Three priority areas have been established, one of which is the “Environment and Energy” field. This field places particular emphasis on addressing next-generation energy challenges such as decarbonization and the transition to renewable energy, promoting the social implementation of research outcomes, and contributing to the realization of a low-carbon society and sustainable growth.

  • Future-Oriented Workshops for Human Resource Development in Low-Carbon Innovation

    Hokkaido University, in cooperation with the Sapporo City Environmental Bureau and local companies, held the “Future-Oriented Workshop – Decarbonization and Sustainable Energy” for graduate students. The program included lectures by the CEO of Japan’s first DAC start-up, site visits to the Ishikari LNG base and power plant, and discussions with government and industry representatives. This initiative deepened knowledge in the decarbonization field and fostered future human resources who can contribute to support for start-ups that foster technology in the low-carbon sector.

Impact

These activities show Hokkaido University’s contributions to both entrepreneurial support and human resource development in the low-carbon sector. The GAP Fund fosters commercialization of research outcomes, while the workshops cultivate next-generation experts who will drive innovation. Together, these efforts provide a continuous foundation for low-carbon innovation and sustainable growth, while also offering incentives for start-ups that support a low carbon economy through funding opportunities and collaborative initiatives.