Results of field trials for dry field direct seeding and water-saving cultivation methods; determination of sales destinations for produced rice

Chubu Electric Power is investing in NEWGREEN Inc. (Representative Directors: Daisuke Yamanaka and Hiroki Nakajo; Location: Tokyo; hereinafter "NEWGREEN") to establish a supply chain for rice with environmental value, and proceeding with a field trials for dry field direct seeding and water-saving cultivation methods (hereinafter "this cultivation method"). (details were announced on May 30, 2025)

This is to announce that rice produced using this cultivation method and harvested in Aichi Prefecture (variety name: Aichi no Kaori) will now be sold to Aim Service Co., Ltd. (President and CEO: Makoto Kodani, Location: Tokyo, hereinafter "Aim Service"), which operates employee cafeterias and school meal services, through JA Aichi Economic Federation.

This field trial was conducted at three locations in Aichi, Mie, and Nagano Prefectures starting in January 2025, with harvesting completed by October 2025. As a result, despite challenges such as germination rates, weed management, and record-breaking heatwaves and water shortages, the yield of "Aichi no Kaori" harvested in Aichi Prefecture reached approximately 5,000 kg, with labor hours reduced by about 15% compared to conventional cultivation. In the agricultural product inspection, it was graded as "Grade 2 rice." Taste analysis results showed that values such as moisture content were comparable to those of general rice.

Furthermore, 4,350kg of "Aichi no Kaori" harvested in Aichi Prefecture will be sold to Aim Service, and discussions are underway to provide it to the employee cafeterias of companies in Aichi Prefecture. We believe these efforts will lead to the wider adoption of rice produced using this cultivation method.

Moving forward, we will continue to focus on expanding cultivation areas, primarily in the Chubu region, with an eye toward commercialization. For the next fiscal year, we plan to participate in a pilot project in Taki Town, Mie Prefecture. This project involves the supply chain that will visualize and monetize greenhouse gas reductions achieved through this cultivation method.

Through rice production using this cultivation method with high productivity and reduced environmental impact, Chubu Electric Power will build a food infrastructure to solve social issues in the agricultural sector thus contributing to the realization of a sustainable and livable society and the achievement of the SDGs.