Introduction
Energy is an important foundation for our daily life and social growth. In Japan, a new energy plan has been developed to realize a sustainable society, taking into consideration the stability of energy supply and its impact on the environment. This Seventh Basic Energy Plan promotes the use of renewable energy and nuclear power while ensuring efficient energy use. This article will explain the details of this plan in an easy-to-understand manner and suggest specific actions we can take for the future.
Current Energy Situation and Issues
Global Energy Situation
The world is facing challenges of rising energy prices and unstable supply due to wars and geopolitical issues. As a result, renewable energies are being introduced at a rapid pace, and efforts to reduce dependence on Russian energy are progressing in Europe.
On the other hand, demand for energy is growing rapidly in emerging economies, which continue to rely on fossil fuels. This is exacerbating global-scale problems such as global warming and energy price volatility.
Japan’s Challenges
Japan imports about 80% of its energy from abroad, and its self-sufficiency rate is only about 20%, the lowest among developed countries.
In order for Japan to overcome its energy problems in the future, it is necessary to promote the spread of renewable energy and introduce new technologies. It is also important for each citizen to be mindful of energy conservation.
Outline of the Seventh Basic Energy Plan
The Seventh Basic Energy Plan is an important plan that provides guidelines for Japan’s energy policy. Below are the main goals of the plan.
Targets for 2040
・Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions: 46% reduction from 2013 levels by 2030, achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
・Expansion of renewable energy: By 2040, more than 50% of our energy supply will come from renewable energy sources.
・Safe use of nuclear power: Introduce next-generation nuclear reactors to increase energy supply security while ensuring safety.
・Strengthen international cooperation: Share renewable energy and hydrogen technologies internationally to help solve global energy problems.
・Stabilize energy prices: Aim for cost-efficient energy supply to ease the burden on households and businesses.
Japan’s Future Electricity Supply
Expanding renewable energy
Japan utilizes solar and wind power generation as well as other energy sources based on regional characteristics. For example, wind power generation is advancing in Hokkaido and Kyushu, while rooftop solar panels are increasingly being installed in urban areas. In addition, storage battery technology is enabling the conservation and efficient use of surplus power.
In addition, “solar sharing,” which combines agriculture and energy, is also attracting attention. This allows for the production of renewable energy while utilizing farmland.
Role of Nuclear Power
Efforts are underway to introduce new types of nuclear reactors that are resistant to earthquakes and tsunamis, and to achieve both safety and efficiency. We are also improving the reliability of nuclear power generation through the development of waste disposal technologies and international cooperation.
Furthermore, there are moves to support the energy needs of emerging countries by providing Japanese nuclear technology to other countries.
Decarbonizing Thermal Power Generation
In thermal power generation, we plan to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by using hydrogen and ammonia as fuels. In addition to this, the introduction of CCUS (Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage) technology aims to significantly reduce the environmental impact of thermal power generation.
Comparison of Renewable Energy and Other Power Generation Methods
Environmental and Cost Perspectives
| Type of energy | Renewable energy ratio (%) | Carbon dioxide emissions (g/kWh) | Cost (yen/kWh) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable energy | 50% | 20 | 10 |
| Thermal power | 30% | 300 | 15 |
| Nuclear power | 20% | 10 | 12 |
This table shows that renewable energy has a low environmental impact and is cost competitive. On the other hand, thermal power generation faces challenges that have a significant environmental impact.
In addition, in some European countries, renewable energy sources account for more than 70% of power generation, and Japan should learn from these successful examples. However, since renewable energy depends on the natural environment, it is not stable, and in some cases too much power is dumped. Its ignition power generation is stable. It is important to take these factors into account and consider them in a balanced manner.
Efficient use of energy
Efforts in daily life
・Choose energy-efficient appliances.
・Switch to an electricity plan that uses renewable energy.
・Frequently turn off unused electricity.
Cooperation in local communities
Local governments will take the lead in promoting the introduction of renewable energy, as well as developing a system to share energy throughout the community.
Efforts at companies
Energy efficiency in the manufacturing process is being improved and reusable resources are being utilized. This has led to ongoing efforts to reduce the environmental impact of the entire company.
Conclusion: Actions for a Sustainable Future
The Seventh Basic Energy Plan is a major step forward for Japan toward the realization of a sustainable society. It is important for each and every one of us to be aware of and take action to conserve energy and use renewable energy.
Furthermore, this plan will contribute to solving environmental problems not only in Japan but also in the world as a whole. Let us all work together to build a better society for the future.
Incidentally, the Seventh Basic Energy Plan discussed in this issue is still in draft form. The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) is seeking your opinions on this draft. (As of January 8, 2025) If you read this article, why don’t you give your opinion? (Opinion solicitation page) Please read the draft in the References section!
References
2.Agency for Natural Resources and Energy, “Basic Energy Plan (Draft)”, December 2024
3.International Energy Agency (IEA), “World Energy Outlook 2024”, October 2024
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