The generation capacity of the project is 1.4 MWDC, and it will start operating in Q1 2014.

“This project illustrates First Solar’s capability to develop and build solar power plants in Japan,” said Joseph Kishkill, First Solar’s chief commercial officer. “We are honoured to begin our long-term strategic investment in Japan with the Kitakyushu-shi project.”

First Solar holds 100 per cent equity in the project, and Obayashi Corporation, headquartered in Tokyo and Yaskawa Electric Corporation, headquartered in Kitakyushu will construct the project.