Over the past year, from August 2024 to July 2025, Japan's electricity consumption has been predominantly reliant on fossil fuels, with more than half of the electricity – approximately 63% – being derived from such sources. Within this category, gas and coal are major contributors, accounting for roughly 31% and 28% respectively, while oil contributes a small fraction at less than 2%. On the other hand, low-carbon or clean energy sources make up about 35% of Japan's electricity generation. Solar power is the most significant low-carbon source, reflecting a contribution of over 11%, followed by nuclear power at close to 9%, and hydropower at around 8%. Other low-carbon sources such as biofuels and wind contribute smaller portions, with biofuels at 4.6% and wind at just over 1%.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Japan?
Japan's electricity consumption has seen a downturn from its historical peak in 2010 when it stood at 9134 kWh per person, with the latest figure in 2025 being 7861 kWh per person, signaling a decrease of 1274 kWh per person. This decline is also reflected in the low-carbon electricity sector, where the generation per person has decreased from its record in 1998, which was 3543 kWh per person, to 2772 kWh per person in 2025, a reduction of 771 kWh per person. Such declines are concerning, given the global emphasis on augmenting clean energy to combat climate change and support growing electricity demands driven by advancements in technology and the electrification of various sectors.
Suggestions
To uplift its low-carbon electricity generation, Japan can prioritize expanding its solar energy capacity, which already presents a robust contribution to the electricity mix. Observing the successes in solar energy from regions like Nevada, where solar comprises 30% of electricity, and Lebanon at 31%, offers a roadmap for enhancement. Additionally, boosting nuclear power generation could serve as a cornerstone for a more sustainable energy future, much like France and Slovakia, where nuclear accounts for nearly 70% of electricity. Learning from South Korea, which efficiently relies on nuclear for 32% of its electricity, Japan can also refine its nuclear strategy. Emulating these successful regions could amplify Japan's low-carbon electricity generation, ensuring sustainability and energy security.
History
Historically, Japan's nuclear capacity has seen significant fluctuations. The late 1970s through the 1990s witnessed substantial growth in nuclear generation, with consistent annual increases ranging from 19 TWh to nearly 28 TWh. However, the decade following 2000 saw some challenges, with notable declines like the 2003 reduction of 55 TWh and 2011's critical drop of nearly 187 TWh. Despite these setbacks, there has been a resurgence with more recent increases, including 32 TWh in 2018 and 26 TWh in 2023. It's crucial for Japan to continue bolstering its nuclear and solar capabilities, learning from past experiences, and adapting to future energy needs to remain a leader in sustainable electricity generation.
