CONTRIBUTION IMPACT
Panasonic is committed to contributing to the reduction of CO2 emissions for society and for its customers. For instance, by improving the performance and cost-efficiency of vehicle batteries to promote the adoption of environmentally responsible vehicles, replacing fossil fuel-based systems with electric heat pump water heaters, and implementing "RE100" solutions to ensure all energy consumed in business activities is sourced from 100% renewable energy, Panasonic is supporting electrification and the shift towards renewable energy, thereby contributing to the overall reduction of CO2 emissions in society.
Automotive Batteries
Panasonic's Cylindrical Lithium-ion Batteries for Automobiles Deliver High Energy Density and Safety.
Originally developed for notebook computers, Panasonic's cylindrical lithium-ion batteries for automobiles now account for 60%1 of the Group's overall avoided CO2 emissions. Leveraging the characteristics of these durable and lightweight cylindrical batteries, Panasonic continually innovates to enhance energy density, safety, and cost-effectiveness. The cylindrical shape of the cell facilitates superior cooling in automotive batteries, making them ideal for fast-charging electric vehicles (EVs) and supporting the global EV market's expansion.
Additionally, in the manufacturing of lithium-ion batteries, we have worked on reducing the use of rare metals, which emit more CO2 during refinement processing, and completed the development of cobalt-free batteries. This is all part of our commitment to reducing environmental impact while improving product performance and expanding supply.
1The figure for projected avoided emissions of CO2 for the entire Panasonic Group for fiscal 2031 is 93 million tons (based on disclosed data from the Panasonic Group Sustainability Management Briefing of July 2022).
Features of cylindrical automotive batteries
Cylindrical lithium-ion automotive batteries are a focus of ongoing Panasonic technological innovation.
Ramping Up Battery Production in Response to North America's expanding EV Market
Currently, the global EV market is expanding, particularly in North America, with the average annual growth rate from 2021 to 2030 estimated at 35%2.
In line with the strong push by North American governments to build up the EV supply chain as part of national policy, the Panasonic Group is expanding its automotive battery business in the United States. Focusing on increasing production capacity and improving investment efficiency, we aim to quadruple our 2022 production capacity for automotive batteries (in terms of total GWh) by 2030.
2 The Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) is estimated at 35% (Panasonic's own projection).
Global EV market growth due to increasing demand for electrification
Panasonic Group automotive battery factories in North America continue to advance.
Expanding Our Automotive Battery Business to Increase Avoided CO2 Emissions
Along with the expansion of our automotive battery business, we are implementing various initiatives at our North American factories to build a supply chain that reduces environmental impact. Entering into long-term contracts to procure recycled materials is one such initiative.
The figure for avoided CO2 emissions of our automotive battery business, which was 8 million tons in fiscal 2021, will be increased to 21 million tons in fiscal 2025, and further raised to approximately 59 million tons in fiscal 2031, representing a roughly fivefold rise relative to the fiscal 2023 level.
3Avoided CO2 emissions for our Battery-Equipped Electric Vehicles (BEVs)
Rise in automotive battery avoided CO2 emissions due to increased use of EVs
Air-to-Water Heat Pumps
Air-to-Water (A2W) Heat Pumps: A Sustainable Solution for CO2 Emissions Reduction
Air-to-Water is a heat pump water heating system that gathers heat from the atmosphere to produce hot water for circulation within the home. This innovative system offers a more sustainable alternative to traditional heating devices that burn fossil fuels. It is suitable for both new builds and existing homes, providing an eco-friendly option for replacing conventional heating equipment.
n Japan, production of Eco Cute4 household A2W heat pump water heaters began in March 2002. By March 2022, cumulative shipments reached 2 million units. This technology not only reduces CO2 emissions but also maintains heating efficiency even in cold climates. Moreover, products designed for the European market can serve as both heating and cooling devices, making them suitable for various regions.I
4 "Eco Cute" is branding used by Japanese electricity companies and water-heater manufacturers to designate natural refrigerant (CO2) heat pump water heaters for domestic use.
Contributing to reduction of CO2 emissions with hot water supply and heating that uses atmospheric heat
The Aquarea series heat pump hot water and heating system for the European market
Responding to Europe's Demand for A2W, and Helping Society Reach Carbon Neutrality
In Europe, efforts to combat climate change are progressing, and the demand for A2W is increasing year by year. By fiscal 2031, the market is expected to have undergone a dramatic expansion.
In various EU member states, subsidy programs have been introduced in line with the EU's decarbonization policies, accelerating the demand for A2W. Additionally, due to global conflicts, natural gas prices have surged in Europe, prompting a transition from conventional boiler heating to A2W.
The Panasonic Group aims to deliver high-efficiency A2W solutions, particularly in Europe, contributing to the reduction of CO2 emissions in the region.
Increase in avoided CO2 emissions due to popularization of heat pump hot water and heating systems.
Heat pump hot water and heating systems to meet the growing demand in Europe
Reinforcing A2W Operations in European Markets
To accelerate the growth of its A2W business in Europe, the Panasonic Group is establishing an integrated system for development, manufacturing, and sales within Europe, enhancing its competitiveness in the market.
Additionally, at our factory in the Czech Republic, we are expanding production facilities to increase A2W production capacity. Plans are to produce 550,000 units by FY2026, then 1 million units in the medium term, targeting avoided CO2 emissions of 11 million tons by FY2031.
Enhancing A2W production capacity within Europe
A2W Technology Reduces Environmental Impact While Enhancing Quality of Life
In A2W technology, the refrigerant plays a crucial role in transporting heat from the atmosphere. The Panasonic Group's A2W utilizes a refrigerant derived from substances naturally present in the environment, reducing environmental impact.
Furthermore, by leveraging the high heating capacity of this natural refrigerant, A2W maintains heating performance even in extremely cold regions, operating even with outdoor temperatures as low as -20ºC. A2W systems also offer features such as remote monitoring, enhancing users' quality of life.
Features of A2W
Pure Hydrogen Fuel Cells
Contributing to Carbon Neutrality Through the Widespread Adoption of Pure Hydrogen Fuel Cells
The widespread adoption of pure hydrogen fuel cells, which generate electricity using hydrogen, is a crucial aspect of the Panasonic Group's efforts to help achieve carbon neutrality.
Leveraging the technology of our Ene-Farm home fuel cell cogeneration system, these fuel cells offer excellent power generation efficiency with a compact form factor. They can be installed in various locations, such as rooftops, basements, and cramped spaces. Moreover, coordinated control of multiple units enables power generation output to be increased according to demand.
Through the widespread adoption of hydrogen fuel cells, we aim to increase our avoided emissions from 200,000 tons in fiscal 2021 to 600,000 tons in fiscal 2025, and again to 6 million tons by fiscal 2031.
Increase in avoided CO2 emissions due to popularization of pure hydrogen fuel cells
The "RE100" Solution
Panasonic's "RE100" Solution Uses Pure Hydrogen Fuel Cells
The Panasonic Group is proactively engaged in demonstrating its "RE100" Solution using pure hydrogen fuel cells. This initiative aims to power 100% of our business operations using renewable energy sources.
The "RE100" Solution integrates pure hydrogen fuel cells, solar power generation and storage batteries for storing surplus power. These components work together in an energy management system, allowing coordinated control. By adapting to changes in weather conditions and energy demand, the system ensures an optimal and stable supply of electricity. This approach enables efficient, locally sourced energy consumption, contributing to the realization of a sustainable and environmentally responsible energy ecosystem.
Pure hydrogen fuel cells installed in a multi-unit configuration (artist's rendering)
Panasonic's H2 KIBOU FIELD Facility is Pioneering a World-Leading "RE100" Solution
At our Kusatsu Factory in Japan, the H2 KIBOU FIELD experimental facility is pioneering the world's first5 conversion to the "RE100" Solution system utilizing hydrogen6 on a large-scale basis. By accumulating valuable insights through demonstration experiments, we plan to advance commercialization by rolling out this technology to our customers' facilities. Starting in fiscal 2025, we are set to initiate demonstration experiments in Europe, particularly in the UK and Germany, where there is a high level of interest in clean energy.
5 A demonstration using hydrogen as a fuel for self-generation to supply a plant's operational electricity needs
6 Green hydrogen generated through renewable energy, including the use of environmental value certificates, is utilized to achieve "RE100" compliance. While the initial demonstration does not use hydrogen derived from renewable sources, our aim is to transition to utilizing hydrogen from renewable sources in the future.
Due to the increase in CO2, Earth is the hottest it has been in 1,400 years, and climate change is accelerating.
CEO Kusumi shares the Panasonic Group's resolve regarding Panasonic GREEN IMPACT.
The Panasonic Group aims to create impact that reduces CO2 emissions by at least 300 million tons by 2050.
Carbon Neutrality
Circular Economy
