Japan’s industry ministry has released a draft of its new basic energy plan, targeting a power generation mix with 40–50% renewable energy and 20% nuclear energy by fiscal 2040, as reported by Jiji Press via The Japan News.
The draft marks a major shift from policies following the 2011 Fukushima disaster, removing language on reducing nuclear reliance. Instead, it includes strategies to rejuvenate ageing reactors and develop next-generation technologies.
To meet rising power demand, driven by data centres and semiconductor factories, power generation is expected to increase to 1.1–1.2 trillion kilowatt-hours by 2040, up from 1 trillion kWh currently. The renewable energy target will rise from the 2030 goal of 36–38% to 40–50%. Thermal power, especially coal, will drop to 30–40%, down from 68.6% in 2023.
The draft proposes promoting hydrogen and ammonia as cleaner alternatives for thermal power to cut emissions. It also highlights innovative technologies like lightweight perovskite solar cells.
Nuclear power’s share, currently 8.5% as of fiscal 2023, will increase to 20% through reactor upgrades and replacements on existing sites.
The plan reflects Japan’s goal to secure a stable and diverse energy mix while addressing rising resource prices caused by geopolitical tensions, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and Middle East conflicts. The plan is expected to receive cabinet approval in February 2025.