Japan’s Energy Transition: A Path to Renewables
Japan, known for its technological prowess, is navigating a complex energy transition. With a GDP per capita of $34,700, significantly higher than the global average of $14,210, Japan is a major player on the global stage. However, its environmental impact is notable, with annual CO2 emissions reaching 961 million tonnes and a per capita output of 7.77 metric tonnes, compared to the global average of 4.7.
On the scenic mountain ridges of Fukushima Prefecture, the Abukuma windfarm stands as a testament to Japan’s renewable energy future. This facility, Japan’s largest onshore windfarm, was constructed at a cost of ¥67 billion (£310 million) and became fully operational in April. It represents a critical component of the nation’s strategic energy plan to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
Despite these strides, Japan’s energy policies have sparked controversy. The government has shifted away from reducing nuclear power reliance post-Fukushima, now aiming for nuclear to contribute about 20% of total energy output by 2040. Currently, 14 nuclear reactors have been restarted, with 30 expected to be operational by 2040.
Japan’s reliance on fossil fuels surged after the Fukushima disaster led to nuclear reactor closures. The country became the second-largest importer of liquefied fossil gas after China and the third-largest coal importer. However, the energy plan envisages a significant increase in renewable energy, targeting a 40-50% share by 2040, up from under a third in 2023, while reducing coal-fired power from 63% to 30-40%.
Fukushima Prefecture has ambitious goals for renewable energy, aiming for 100% renewables by 2040, with a midterm target of 70% by 2030. “Everyone in the prefecture is determined to reach the target,” said Takayuki Hirano of Fukushima Fukko Furyoku, a joint venture led by Sumitomo Corporation.
Nuclear power remains a contentious issue in Japan. The country, the fifth-largest emitter of greenhouse gases, has made progress in reducing its carbon footprint. Emissions fell by 4% to a record low by March 2024, driven by lower energy consumption, increased renewable energy use, and the restart of nuclear plants. The goal is to reduce emissions by 46% from 2013 levels by 2030.
Globally, Japan faces criticism for its fossil fuel reliance. It received the Fossil of the Day award from the Climate Action Network for its slow decarbonization progress, highlighting its promotion of carbon capture and storage as “dressed up as solutions.” At a global summit, Japan’s environment minister declined to support a roadmap for transitioning away from fossil fuels, drawing criticism from environmental groups.
Fukushima’s energy transformation extends beyond wind power. Geothermal energy is also playing a role in the region’s transition. In Tsuchiyu Onsen, a hot spring resort, geothermal energy is harnessed to power a plant producing 440kW of electricity, enough for 800 homes. This natural resource supports both local energy needs and the town’s recovery from the 2011 disaster.
Tsuchiyu Onsen serves as a model for other onsen towns. “The good thing about this project is that we don’t recycle water and send it on to the bath houses and inns as an afterthought. It’s a more natural, linear process,” said Tomio Sakuma, the renewable energy area manager for Genki Up Tsuchiyu.
Renewable energy initiatives in Fukushima, like the Abukuma windfarm and geothermal projects, are crucial to achieving the prefecture’s 100% renewable energy target. Takayuki Kato, CEO of Genki Up Tsuchiyu, emphasized the importance of ambitious targets, stating, “If we don’t set and then reach an ambitious target, we can hardly claim to be a symbol of Fukushima’s energy transformation.”
Original Story at www.theguardian.com