JTB Australia Delivers a Successful Solar Power Facility Opening Ceremony for ENEOS and Sojitz

Client :ENEOS Australia Pty Ltd (hereafter ENEOS), Sojitz Australia Ltd (Sojitz)

Industry :Energy Trading Solutions

Participants :Around 70

Destination :Chinchilla, Australia

Period :September 28, 2023

# Case Studies
# Event Solution
# Oceania

JTB Australia Delivers a Successful Solar Power Facility Opening Ceremony for ENEOS and Sojitz

Overview of the Project and Event Scope

Proposing design of opening ceremony and reception for large solar power facility
Overcoming transportation and supply difficulties unique to a first-time host region
Using extensive network to streamline preparations up to the day of the event
Receiving high praise from VIPs of both companies and state officials

Project Background and Client Objectives

The client for this project is ENEOS, a major Japanese company involved in developing gas stations nationwide and renewable energy projects, such as solar power generation. Sojitz, their business partner, is a major Japanese trading company that, in addition to the energy business, operates in various fields including automobiles, aircraft, infrastructure, metal resources, chemicals, and retail. These two companies have collaborated in the renewable energy business for some time, and have recently established a solar power facility, Edenvale Solar Park, in Queensland, Australia. Construction began in June 2021 and the opening ceremony was held on September 28, 2023.

This is the first large-scale solar power facility project undertaken in Australia for both companies and, to date, the largest solar power facility in the country led by a Japanese company. To mark this major milestone, the Consul General of Japan in Brisbane, Queensland State Government officials, and executives from ENEOS and Sojitz planned to attend the opening ceremony and reception.

ENEOS selected JTB from multiple candidates due to its proven expertise in international corporate events and its attention to detail rooted in Japanese service standards, and because of our handling of VIPs including state government officials and consul generals.

Operational and Logistical Challenges

After several revisions and proposals, a plan was formalized about four months before the opening ceremony. Within a limited timeframe, JTB Australia was required to manage guest availability, logistics, and transportation as part of comprehensive corporate event management. Edenvale Solar Park, where the opening ceremony was to be held, was a four-hour drive from Brisbane, the state capital of Queensland. Unlike urban settings, the remote venue presented challenges commonly seen in corporate events in Australia held outside major cities.

Procuring equipment and supplies for the opening ceremony was a particularly challenging hurdle. The inaccessible location from the city and unsuitable delivery and local purchasing options meant there was uncertainty whether the necessary equipment and supplies, from tents down to ribbon cutting sets, could be arranged and set up by the deadline.

The client also requested an opening ceremony that would reflect strong Japan–Australia ties through thoughtful cross-border event management. Therefore, it was important that we delivered a uniquely Japanese event within the limited time and supplies available.

Key Operational Focus Areas

Arranging travel arrangements for guests, including VIPs
Purchasing, delivering, and storing necessary equipment and supplies
Planning events offering Japanese cultural experiences

Strategic Event Solutions and Execution

Proactive Supplier Coordination and Rapid Response

Since we had not previously worked with most suppliers essential to the opening ceremony and reception in the region, every effort was made to report and communicate frequently with them. This proactive approach enabled the timely delivery of materials and equipment essential to opening ceremony planning and on-site operations.

When specific equipment or supplies were needed, our team promptly responded by personally delivering and storing them before the event.

Incorporating Japanese Cultural Elements into the Event Experience

To meet the client’s expectations, Japanese cuisine was incorporated into the reception as part of a culturally focused international corporate event experience. We also invited a Japanese taiko drumming team based in Australia who gave a thunderous performance on the day of the events.

Outcomes and Business Impact

Thanks to our extensive resources and level of communication, the opening ceremony and reception were a great success. Officials from ENEOS and Sojitz, and state government officials, expressed their appreciation for the attention paid to the details in the proceedings. The highest compliment we received was along the lines of “as expected from JTB.”

The event was also highly praised for highlighting to guests the strong relationship between Japan and Australia. We at JTB will continue to provide flexible solutions for all situations, with the help of our network of offices worldwide and our understanding of local cultures.

Project Leadership and Expertise

Kota Toda

He has gained extensive experience working for the JTB Group in Tokyo and Australia, where he has specialized in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry as well as promotion business.