Kobelco Power Kobe No. 2 Inc. begins commercial operation of No. 3 unit at Kobe Power Plant

Kobe Steel, Ltd. announces today that its wholly owned subsidiary Kobelco Power Kobe No. 2, Inc., has begun commercial operation of the No. 3 unit at the Kobe Power Plant in Kobe, Japan to supply power to Kansai Electric Power Co., Inc.

Prior to the start of commercial operation, Kobelco Power Kobe No. 2 has completed all necessary legal procedures and confirmed that the performance of the No. 3 unit meets the prescribed conditions. The No. 3 unit and No. 4 unit (under construction) at the Kobe Power Plant will generate 1.3 GW (650 MW x 2 units).

Under the national energy policy, Japan has been promoting the transition to higher efficiency thermal power plants to ensure a stable energy supply, economic efficiency, and environmental compliance with priority on safety. The Kobe Power Plant’s No. 3 unit, located close to Kobe City and the surrounding Hanshin area with high demand for electricity, will contribute to the improvement of power supply efficiency with the introduction of the ultra-supercritical pressure power generation system, which is the most advanced power generation technology. In addition, it will also contribute to the development of the region through the stable supply of economically efficient electricity.

While ensuring the highest level of environmental compliance in Japan, Kobelco Power Kobe No. 2 will fulfill its role as an urban power plant operator with due consideration for the local community, as required by the Environmental Conservation Agreement concluded with Kobe City pursuant to the Kobe City's ordinance to protect the environment of Kobe citizens. In the commissioning before the start of commercial operation, it was confirmed that the No. 3 unit satisfies the requirements as provided in the agreement. We will proceed with the construction of the No. 4 unit, which is expected to start commercial operation in fiscal 2022.

The Kobe Steel Group, also known as the KOBELCO Group, promotes sustainability management based on the Group Corporate Philosophy. In accordance with the national energy policy, we will improve the efficiency of thermal power generation facilities and provide a stable supply of economically efficient electricity. Toward carbon neutrality in 2050, we will strive to further improve the efficiency of thermal power generation and reduce carbon emissions with the aim of realizing a world in which people, now and in the future, can fulfill their hopes and dreams while enjoying safe, secure, and prosperous lives.