Amazon has unveiled its latest fulfillment center in Nagoya, Japan, which is designed to operate sustainably by utilizing geothermal technology and vertical solar panels. This new facility aims to regulate its indoor climate efficiently using the Earth's underground temperature and generate carbon-free energy through innovative solar panel installations.
The center employs geo-exchange technology for heating and cooling, harnessing underground temperatures for a more efficient climate control system compared to traditional methods. It marks the first Amazon building worldwide to incorporate vertical solar panels on its walls, making it the largest onsite solar project outside of the United States.
The geothermal heat pump installed at the facility will circulate water through 200 bores drilled over 300 feet deep. In summer, this system absorbs coolness from the Earth's stable temperature to maintain comfortable indoor conditions. During winter, it reverses the process, using ground warmth to heat the building. This method is reported to use 30% less energy than conventional air conditioning systems.
Given land scarcity in Japan, Amazon has opted for creative solutions to maximize renewable energy generation. The fulfillment center features rooftop and parking lot solar panels, along with vertical installations on south-facing walls. These vertical panels capture additional sunlight during morning and afternoon hours while acting as a heat shield during hot days.
The combined capacity of these solar panels reaches 5.5MW, making it one of Japan's largest onsite solar power systems at a logistics facility. Additionally, a 2.9 megawatt-hour battery storage system will supply carbon-free energy when sunlight is unavailable.
The fulfillment center's sustainability initiatives are expected to earn it a "Zero Carbon Certification" from Living Future by late 2026. Amazon continues its commitment to sustainable operations by investing in nuclear projects and other carbon-free energy technologies.