Microsoft Powers Up Renewable Energy Portfolio with 100 MW Japan Solar Acquisition

Microsoft Expands Renewable Energy Portfolio with 100 MW Solar Acquisition in Japan Microsoft has made another significant move to power its growing compute needs with renewable energy, acquiring 100 megawatts of solar capacity from Japanese developer Shizen Energy. The deal, announced last week, covers four separate solar developments, including one already operational and three under construction. The agreement will provide Microsoft with a 20-year supply of clean energy, supporting the company's expanding data center operations in Japan. This latest acquisition brings Microsoft's total renewable energy portfolio to an impressive level, with the company having contracted over 1 gigawatt of solar capacity since the beginning of the year. "We are committed to reducing our carbon footprint and increasing our reliance on renewable energy," said a spokesperson for Microsoft. "This deal is another step towards achieving our goal of powering 60% of our data centers with clean energy by 2025." The acquisition is part of Microsoft's broader strategy to invest $2.9 billion in Japan over the next year, which will see the company expand its compute capacity and create new job opportunities. Solar has become an increasingly attractive option for tech companies and data center operators due to its speed and cost-effectiveness. Projects can be completed within 18 months, allowing users to begin drawing power before the entire project is complete. This makes solar a particularly appealing choice for companies with growing energy demands like Microsoft. Microsoft's commitment to renewable energy has been evident in recent months, with the company announcing several significant deals. The acquisition of 100 MW from Shizen Energy is just the latest example of this trend. The deal marks another milestone in Japan's transition towards a more sustainable energy mix. The country has set ambitious targets to increase its use of renewable energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. As Microsoft continues to expand its operations in Japan, it is clear that renewable energy will play an increasingly important role in powering the company's growth. With this latest acquisition, Microsoft takes another step towards achieving its goal of becoming a leader in sustainable computing. Microsoft operates two data centers in Japan, with plans to expand its compute capacity as part of its $2.9 billion investment in the country over the next year. The company has been actively pursuing renewable energy deals to power its growing operations, recognizing the importance of reducing its carbon footprint and increasing its reliance on clean energy. The acquisition of 100 MW from Shizen Energy is a significant development for both Microsoft and Japan's renewable energy sector. As the demand for sustainable computing continues to grow, companies like Microsoft will play an increasingly important role in driving innovation and investment in renewable energy technologies. Microsoft's commitment to renewable energy has been recognized by industry experts and analysts, who see the company as a leader in sustainable computing. The acquisition of 100 MW from Shizen Energy is just one example of this trend, and it is clear that Microsoft will continue to play an important role in shaping the future of renewable energy. In related news, Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry has announced plans to increase its investment in renewable energy technologies, with a focus on solar and wind power. The move is seen as a major boost for the country's transition towards a more sustainable energy mix. As Microsoft continues to expand its operations in Japan, it will be interesting to see how the company's commitment to renewable energy evolves. With this latest acquisition, Microsoft takes another step towards achieving its goal of becoming a leader in sustainable computing. *Reporting by Techcrunch.*