Electricity in Japan in 2023/2024

From July 2023 to June 2024, the electricity consumption in Japan was heavily reliant on fossil fuels, with over two-thirds coming from fossil energy sources, primarily gas and coal contributing 32% and 29% respectively. Low-carbon or clean energy sources accounted for almost a third of Japan’s electricity, with solar power leading this category at 10%. Nuclear power, hydropower, and biofuels provided 9%, 8%, and 4% respectively, collectively contributing to Japan’s low-carbon electricity generation. Notably, wind energy accounted for just above 1%, which indicates room for improvement in this area. The dominant reliance on fossil energy poses significant challenges associated with climate change and air pollution, highlighting the need for Japan to expand its low-carbon energy infrastructure.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Japan can focus on expanding existing solar infrastructure due to the significant amount of electricity already being generated from this source. Japan could also draw insights from countries like France and Finland, which have successfully implemented a substantial share of nuclear power in their electricity mix, with France achieving nearly two-thirds. For wind energy, Japan can look to Denmark, where wind power supplies over half of the country's electricity, showing the potential for substantial wind power development in coastal areas. By learning from these countries, Japan can enhance its clean energy profile by building more nuclear power plants and wind farms, alongside further solar development, to meet its growing electricity demands sustainably.

History

Historically, Japan has experienced fluctuations in nuclear electricity generation. In the late 1970s and through the 1980s, nuclear electricity saw significant growth, with notable increases in 1978, 1984, and 1985. However, in the early 2000s, Japan faced notable setbacks, with reductions in 2002 and 2003. The situation drastically changed in 2011 following a marked decrease of 187 TWh due to external factors, followed by a continued decline in subsequent years. Nevertheless, the recent years show a positive trend, with increases in nuclear generation in 2018 and the following years, such as in 2023. This resilient recovery exemplifies the importance of nuclear energy as a stable and significant contributor to Japan’s low-carbon electricity generation. By addressing previous challenges, Japan can further harness the potential of nuclear energy in its climate strategy.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources