Mitsubishi Electric, one of Japan’s leading industrial companies, has announced plans to invest approximately 100 billion yen over seven years, from fiscal 2024 to 2030, in research and development through industry-academia-government collaboration. This investment represents a 40 billion yen increase over the initially planned 60 billion yen, highlighting a focus on green energy fields such as carbon dioxide (CO2) capture technologies and hydrogen energy. This article examines the significance of this decision and the expectations for the future.
From Self-Reliance to Open Innovation
Kouichi Oka, Senior Executive Officer at Mitsubishi Electric, remarked, “It is essential to break away from self-reliance and advance research and development openly with diverse partners.” This statement signifies a shift from a traditional, closed R&D model to an open innovation model centered on industry-academia-government collaboration.
These initiatives include partnerships with institutions like the University of Tokyo and the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO), which could accelerate groundbreaking technological advancements. Industry-academia-government collaboration effectively integrates the cutting-edge knowledge of academic institutions, the practical capabilities of businesses, and government policy support to create new value.
Focusing on the Future of Green Energy
The fields Mitsubishi Electric is focusing on include CO2 capture technologies and hydrogen energy, both critical steps toward achieving a carbon-neutral society. For instance, advances in CO2 capture technology could contribute not only to emission reductions from large-scale factories and power plants but also to the development of “direct air capture” systems that efficiently remove CO2 from the atmosphere.
Similarly, hydrogen energy plays a key role in ensuring the stable supply of renewable energy, especially for applications like fuel cell vehicles and power plants.
New Possibilities Through AI Utilization
Simultaneously, Mitsubishi Electric aims to increase the share of patents related to artificial intelligence (AI) and generative AI to 15% of its total patent filings by fiscal 2025. This initiative reflects the company’s intent to integrate data utilization and AI technologies into its areas of expertise, such as factory automation (FA) and air conditioning systems. The efficiency and precision improvements brought about by AI will be crucial in enhancing the competitiveness of both the manufacturing and service industries.
Implications for Japanese Industry
This news is not only a reflection of Mitsubishi Electric’s strategy but also a potential model case for Japan’s entire industrial sector. By demonstrating a proactive approach to tackling environmental issues, the company sets an example that could encourage similar initiatives from others. Additionally, promoting AI and data utilization will accelerate digital transformation across industries.
Conclusion
Mitsubishi Electric’s R&D strategy represents a bold step toward realizing a sustainable society and fostering new technological innovations. The company’s commitment to open innovation through industry-academia-government collaboration serves as a directional guide for future corporate strategies, drawing attention domestically and internationally. It also challenges individuals to consider how they can contribute to such endeavors.
