We would like to supply electricity to local areas by utilizing the tidal power of the Seto Inland Sea with generators that are small, lightweight, and exciting. In Part 1, Mr. Fujiwara shared his vision for his company SETO iS POWER. In Part 2, he talked about his reasons for collaborating with Starlite and future activities.
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The collaboration began with the simple words, "This is it!"
Tsujimoto (Starlite): You chose our BARIAS® material because it is lightweight and durable, and it can be used in the sea.
Fujiwara (SETO iS POWER): I already had Starlite in mind as a manufacturer of plastic composite materials. When I went to Starlite Exhibition Hall at the Ritto Plant and touched the BARIAS® coated product, I thought, “Wow, this is light!”
T: Not many people get that excited while in our exhibition hall.
F: Well, it is hard to find something that is lightweight and sturdy enough to be used in the sea. I heard it could withstand impact from floating objects and is durable, so I almost shouted, “This is it!”
T: Your eyes are sparkling just talking about it.
F: I used to think plastic was light but weak. But, Starlite’s material was different. It is sturdy yet flexible and is designed for use in the sea. I was amazed!
Prototypes, verification, and next steps for the future
T: How is the project coming along?
F: We are in the middle of testing the performance of a half-sized prototype. We are looking into whether reducing weight would actually improve the efficiency of power generation or if there would be any disadvantages.
T: I heard its lightweight makes installation and maintenance much easier.
F: That is right! If it is large and heavy, a barge and special equipment will be required. But with this generator, even unused barges that are normally moored in the harbor can be used. In short, it means you can make use of the existing assets.
T: Giving unused assets a new role is also the value of collaboration.
F: It is lightweight, durable, and easy to install, and requires minimal maintenance. This is extremely meaningful for remote islands and small coastal areas. It will be great to be able to have own infrastructure.
T: It is energy generated locally for local use.
F: Yes. From a society where large power plants are concentrated in one area to a society where people support their own communities with their own resources. That is what I am aiming for.
If we are going to do it, we might as well be excited about it.
T: As we wrap up this interview, what is the most important message you hope to convey through this project?
F: I would like to preserve the beautiful scenery of Japan for future generations, while developing the local areas and maintaining the country that we can be proud of. For the sake of the Earth and for the sake of future generations, we like to think outside the box and come up with new ideas.
T: That seems to be a great example of your character.
F: This may not be something a company should say, but our goal is not to pursue profits, but to make our society a better place. If profits are generated as a result, we give them back for further improvements. I like to keep that cycle going.
T: Tidal power generation seems to symbolize that kind of cycle.
F: Tidal power generation is just one of them. I think these small steps have the potential to change the future. So I would be delighted if people could take an interest in this initiative from the perspective of how new technologies and materials will impact society.
T: I was completely captivated by your ideas. I would like to develop a plan to inform as many people as possible about this project.
F: That sounds nice! If the prototype goes well, I would like to have an interview with CEO Saigo. He can hold the prototype model and share with our readers that it looks heavy, but even one person can carry it!
T: It looks like we will be able to take photos of you smiling and looking happy.
F: All right, it is settled. I cannot wait! We look forward to sharing our future developments with you all!