Japan’s new energy policy: nuclear power and renewables key to future growth

Japan is set to adopt a new energy strategy aimed at addressing growing demand for electricity while pursuing its decarbonization goals. A government-backed panel of experts has supported plans to maximize nuclear power and expand renewable energy sources, with the goal of reaching up to 50% renewable energy by 2040. Nuclear power is expected to account for 20 percent of the country’s energy supply, reversing the previous elimination. policies following the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster. These measures are proposed to ensure energy security and meet net zero emissions targets by 2050.

Key objectives outlined in the draft policy

As reported On pbs.org, according to the energy policy proposed by the Ministry of Industry, renewable energy will become Japan’s main energy source, with the ambitious goal of reaching 40 to 50 percent of the energy mix by 2040 At the same time, nuclear energy will be harnessed to provide stable, low-carbon electricity. The plan includes restarting inactive reactors that meet updated safety standards and building next-generation reactors at decommissioned sites.

To meet the growing energy needs of data centers and semiconductor factories, coal use will be significantly reduced and investment in advanced solar technologies and portable solutions will be encouraged. However, experts have raised concerns about the viability of these goals due to slow progress on reactor restarts and regulatory approvals.

Challenges in achieving nuclear goals

As reported by pbs.org, experts said restarting all 33 operating reactors in Japan, a requirement to meet proposed nuclear energy goals, will be a major challenge. Industry Minister Yoji Muto stated during the panel review that achieving decarbonized energy security is essential for the country’s economic growth. However, critics have pointed out that the draft policy lacks clear timelines for phasing out fossil fuels and relies heavily on successful cost reductions in renewable energy development.

The plan, which will be reviewed by the Cabinet in March after a public consultation, represents Japan’s twin approach of relying on nuclear power and renewables to meet its growing energy needs and decarbonization commitments.