Kyocera, SJC launch solar powered shelter in Japan

Kyocera and Sekisui Jushi Corporation's solar powered Eco-Shell. Image: Kyocera Solar.

Japan and cutting-edge technology have long gone hand in hand and therefore it is no surprise that Kyocera’s latest solar innovation, the Eco-Shell, is being launched in the Land of the Rising Sun.

The shell is a joint venture between Kyocera and Sekisui Jushi Corporation (SJC) and has been designed to provide eco-friendly protection against the elements at bus stops, benches and walkways. It combines SJC’s conventional multi-purpose shelter with Kyocera PV cells, which will be used to power energy-conserving LEDs and advertising displays. All excess electricity will be fed back into the grid.

The Eco-Shell is exclusive to Japan and will go on sale on July 20, with SJC and Kyocera hopeful that local councils and private companies will install the shelters.