Bringing renewable powered circular agriculture to urban Tokyo

Syla Solar has announced its participation in a The “Circular Agriculture” project, led by Land Brain Co., Ltd., will run until the end of the 2026 fiscal year and focuses on developing an energy-independent, soil-free organic farming system.

The project seeks to address two key urban challenges: reducing environmental impact and securing a stable food supply. It is built upon a multi-tiered vertical hydroponics system that grows produce organically without soil. This method is enhanced by the use of specialised microbes, a unique planting medium called “Silica Soil” derived from waste glass, and a self-contained renewable energy system.

Syla Solar will contribute its expertise in renewable energy technology and energy management to support the facility’s complete energy independence. The company is responsible for designing and installing the solar panels and battery storage systems. These will work in conjunction with wind power and rainwater harvesting to create a fully circular, self-sufficient facility.

The cultivation facility is optimised for efficiency. Solar panels are installed on the upper and lower sections, with the upper panels angled to capture rainwater for use in cultivation. The electricity generated during the day powers the water circulation pumps and sensors, while also charging the batteries. This stored energy is then used to run climate control systems during colder periods and at night, ensuring a consistent environment for plant growth.

The project is founded on five sustainable/circular concepts: the circulation of water through rainwater harvesting, symbiosis with microbes for efficient cultivation, resource circulation by using recycled glass, renewable energy from solar and wind power, and an agriculture-welfare collaboration that provides employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

Syla Solar will also develop and implement an IoT-based remote monitoring system to manage the facility’s operations and provide content that makes the renewable energy usage visible for educational purposes.

Other partners in this venture include Endophyte Inc., which will handle the microbial materials; Planet Inc., responsible for verifying the hydroponic methods; Act Silica Co., Ltd., which will validate the circular systems; and the Urban Agriculture and Welfare Promotion Association, which will manage the cultivation process through its social welfare network.