Tokyo Gas Establishes Adhesive Installation Method for Thin and Lightweight Solar Panels on Building Facades
Tokyo Gas has established a new adhesive construction method for mounting thin, lightweight solar panels on building facades. The method is being used in a demonstration experiment at Tokyu Land Corporation's 'Techno Farm Keihanna' plant factory, with a target launch in FY2026.
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- 📰 Published: May 26, 2026 at 20:00
- 🔍 Collected: May 26, 2026 at 11:31
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Tokyo Gas Co., Ltd. has established a new adhesive construction method for installing thin, lightweight solar panels on building facades. This method has been adopted for Japan's first demonstration experiment conducted by Tokyu Land Corporation, which involves installing film-type chalcopyrite solar cells on the building exterior of 'Techno Farm Keihanna,' an artificial light-type plant factory operated by Tokyu Land Corporation and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Green Factory TFK.
Through this initiative, the company will verify the workability, safety, and durability of this method, aiming to launch the service within fiscal year 2026 as part of its solar PPA service, 'Hinatao Solar.'
Next-generation solar cells, such as film-type chalcopyrite solar cells, are lightweight and flexible, showing potential for installation on existing building exteriors; however, the weight of mounting racks and other hardware has hindered widespread adoption. Tokyo Gas has leveraged its existing expertise in adhesive strength from roof installations to develop a new construction method that eliminates the need for mounting racks, drastically reducing the burden on building structures.
Under its 'Compass 2030' management vision, the Tokyo Gas Group continues to contribute to the realization of a carbon-neutral society.
Through this initiative, the company will verify the workability, safety, and durability of this method, aiming to launch the service within fiscal year 2026 as part of its solar PPA service, 'Hinatao Solar.'
Next-generation solar cells, such as film-type chalcopyrite solar cells, are lightweight and flexible, showing potential for installation on existing building exteriors; however, the weight of mounting racks and other hardware has hindered widespread adoption. Tokyo Gas has leveraged its existing expertise in adhesive strength from roof installations to develop a new construction method that eliminates the need for mounting racks, drastically reducing the burden on building structures.
Under its 'Compass 2030' management vision, the Tokyo Gas Group continues to contribute to the realization of a carbon-neutral society.
FAQ
What are the benefits of installing solar panels on building facades?
The benefits include increasing power generation capacity even in buildings with limited roof space and promoting decarbonization by utilizing exterior walls.
Is this adhesive construction method safe?
It is developed based on expertise in adhesive strength and safety gained from roof installations, and will be validated for constructability, safety, and durability during this trial.
How does it differ from existing solar panels?
In addition to the panels being lightweight and flexible, no mounting racks are required, minimizing the load on the building structure.