Publication date: June 1, 2024
Japan’s Strategic Energy Plan Under Review
Japan’s Strategic Energy Plan is a framework to guide the nation’s long-term energy policy. Formulated by the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI), this plan is updated every three to four years to adapt to evolving energy needs, technological advancements, and global trends. The current 6th Strategic Energy Plan, approved by the cabinet in October 2021, is currently under review, and this timing aligns with Japan’s obligation to submit a new Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) ahead of COP30 in November 2025. The revised energy mix from the review of the next Strategic Energy Plan is anticipated to serve as the foundation for Japan’s updated NDC.
Key Features & Impact on Energy Policy
The plan addresses four critical areas: energy security, economic efficiency, environmental sustainability, and safety. As of its 6th iteration, Japan has committed to carbon neutrality by 2050 and an emissions reduction of 46% by 2030, compared with the benchmark year 2013. The plan emphasizes a balanced mix of nuclear, renewables, and fossil fuels, with a focus on increasing the share of renewables like solar and wind and ensuring nuclear energy’s safety post-Fukushima. It also promotes energy-saving practices across industries and households and invests in advanced energy-saving technologies.
In addition, the plan outlines upgrades to the power grid and investment in research and development of energy storage and hydrogen as a clean energy source. It also includes fostering global partnerships for energy security, technology sharing, and climate change mitigation, such as the formation of the Asia Zero Emissions Committee (AZEC) in March 2023.
The Next Review
Japan’s Strategic Energy Plan is essential for steering the country’s energy strategy towards a sustainable and secure future, while being responsive to the evolving needs of industry and consumers.
The upcoming review is expected to address changes in the energy landscape and reassess Japan’s power demand outlook in light of emerging growth areas, particularly in the IT sector. It will likely consider wider issues such as energy and economic security, associated costs, and the impact of digitization on power demand.
METI’s experts’ meeting began drafting the 7th Strategic Energy Plan on May 15th, and this effort will be aligned with the government’s new “GX 2040 Vision” for decarbonization and economic growth, focusing on the power generation mix. A draft plan is expected to be compiled by the end of this year, with Cabinet approval expected by March of next year.
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