This paper explores Japan as an Emerging Market for Virtual Power Plans (VPP) and Distribured Energy Resource management systems. After the 2011 Fukushima nuclear reactor accident, the country has experienced significant reforms of the electricity sector resulting in market deregulation that enables the introduction of efficiencies from new technologies and business models. This makes it one of the more interesting candidates for VPP markets in the Asia Pacific region because of its robust grid infrastructure. Several modelled scenarios for VPPs and a path moving forward are discussed.
Key words: energy management, virtual power plants, electricity sector