Mirait One Co., Ltd. and Power of Forests and Water Co., Ltd. signed an agreement in February 2026 to jointly promote small-scale hydropower projects in the Hokushin area of Nagano Prefecture and the Chuetsu area of Niigata Prefecture. The partnership aims to support regional revitalisation and contribute to Japan’s decarbonisation goals.
The companies cited increasing urgency to strengthen climate change mitigation measures and improve domestic energy self-sufficiency. While solar and wind power capacity has expanded rapidly, output variability due to weather conditions continues to pose challenges for grid stability. Small-scale hydropower projects, which use existing agricultural canals and river flows without the need for large dams, offer a more stable generation profile and minimal environmental impact. These systems also have high capacity utilisation rates and low lifecycle carbon emissions, the companies said.
Under the agreement, Mirait One will be responsible for coordinating with local governments and communities, as well as reviewing and implementing project business plans. Power of Forests and Water will conduct preliminary site surveys and provide technical consulting related to hydropower plant development.
Mirait One, founded in 1946, has expanded from telecommunications infrastructure construction into energy and transportation infrastructure projects. The company is also involved in digital transformation initiatives and renewable energy development for regional communities.
Power of Forests and Water operates small-scale hydropower projects across Japan. The company was established in December 2022 by the Yoshimei Group and the Hida Itsuki Group to develop renewable energy projects in mountainous and rural areas. It works with local communities, fisheries cooperatives, and public agencies to plan and support hydropower facilities aimed at reducing regional carbon emissions and addressing local economic and environmental challenges.
Both companies stated that the partnership will focus on the sustainable use of local water resources and the development of projects that support long-term regional economic stability.
