Renewable Energy Support, Coal Phase Out

Published:
While there is progress in renewable energy initiatives, additional investment and policy support is required to fully unlock the real potential of Japan for these decarbonized, local sources of energy. Japan is still supporting a narrative in favour of coal power, through the use of unproven, controversial technologies.

Recommendations

The Japanese government should increase its commitment to renewable energy investments, offering financial incentives and policy support to companies engaged in renewable energy projects. This includes promoting research and development in renewable technologies and creating a favorable environment for the adoption of clean energy solutions, including those provided by non-Japanese companies. Clearer signals of a coal phase-out should be given, to facilitate reorientation of investments towards clean sources of energy; uncertain technologies such as ammonia co-firing should not be used as excuses to maintain investments in coal power plants in Japan and in foreign countries.