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- Japan aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 60% by 2035 and 73% by 2040 from 2013 levels.
- The country plans for renewables to supply up to 50% of its electricity by 2040, with nuclear contributing 20%.
- The government approved an integrated decarbonization and industrial strategy, but economic and geopolitical uncertainties remain.
Japan’s government approved a long-term plan to cut emissions, revise energy policy, and boost industrial capacity through 2040. The strategy aims to stabilize business policies while ensuring energy security and economic growth.
Climate commitments:
Japan will submit its updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) under the Paris Agreement this month, targeting a 60% emissions cut by 2035 and 73% by 2040. This builds on its 2030 goal of a 46% reduction.
“Despite more than 80% of public comments favoring a more ambitious target, the ministries finalized the goal without changes, citing prior expert deliberations.”
Energy policy shift:
The government’s revised energy plan increases renewable energy’s target to 50% of electricity production by 2040 while boosting nuclear energy’s share to 20%. Japan is also removing its previous commitment to minimize nuclear reliance and plans to develop next-generation reactors.
“Japanese utilities have struggled to restart nuclear reactors since the 2011 Fukushima disaster, limiting nuclear power to just 8.5% of Japan’s electricity supply in 2023.”
Industrial and economic strategy:
A new national policy integrates decarbonization and industrial development. The plan focuses on creating industrial clusters in regions rich in renewables and nuclear power.
Related Article: Japan To Cut Greenhouse Gas Emissions 60% by 2035
Challenges ahead:
Japan’s offshore wind sector faces setbacks due to high costs and inflation, with Mitsubishi Corp. reviewing three domestic projects. Additionally, geopolitical uncertainty, including U.S. policy shifts on climate, adds further risk to Japan’s long-term strategy.
“The decision by U.S. President Donald Trump to withdraw from the Paris Agreement and his negative stance on renewables have further clouded global expansion efforts.”
Bottom line:
Japan’s latest policy framework aligns decarbonization with economic growth but faces financial and political hurdles that could impact its long-term success.
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