The Fukushima disaster in 2011 forced Japan to revise its energy policy agenda. The introduction of the Feed-in Tariff (FIT) scheme in 2012 was a crucial step towards promoting renewable energy. Japan aims to cover 36-38 percent of its electricity demand and 20 percent of its total energy demand from renewable sources by 2030.
Currently, renewable energy accounts for about 10.4 percent of Japan's total energy supply, but this share is expected to increase significantly in the coming years. The recent elevation of targets for climate protection and the expansion of renewable energy in the sixth strategic energy plan at the end of 2021 underscores Japan's commitment to a sustainable energy future.
The Japanese government, under Prime Minister Suga's leadership, has embarked on a new direction in its energy policy. Alongside the goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, Japan aims to increase the share of renewable energy in its overall energy mix to 45 percent by 2040. Special attention is being given to offshore wind energy, viewed as a promising option due to Japan's extensive coastline of over 30,000 kilometers. However, technical challenges posed by steep seabed gradients necessitate the use of floating wind turbines, resulting in higher construction and maintenance costs.
Meanwhile, the city of Tokyo plans to make the installation of solar panels on the roofs of new buildings mandatory starting from 2025, as outlined in a recent announcement by the city government. This regulation will apply to properties with a total floor area ranging from 20 to 2,000 square meters. To support this initiative, new energy efficiency standards will be introduced, alongside subsidies. Further details are expected to be disclosed by city officials in December. This measure presents potential business opportunities for the solar industry.
Tokyo is pursuing ambitious renewable energy targets. Currently, the city derives 17.3 percent of its energy from renewable sources, with a goal to increase this share to 50 percent by 2030. Additionally, Tokyo aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, with greenhouse gas emissions reduced by half compared to the year 2000. The mandatory solar requirement for Tokyo's rooftops is likely to pave the way for new forms of energy generation. Particularly, photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) technology appears promising, as it can harness 70-80 percent of solar energy and, when combined with a PVT heat pump, can both heat and cool indoor spaces. This approach has the potential to reduce energy consumption for air conditioning, especially during Tokyo's scorching summer months.
In Tokyo, more and more volunteers are stepping up to plant new seagrass meadows in the shallow waters surrounding the metropolis. Due to numerous external factors, these meadows have been severely depleted in recent decades. Given their high CO2 absorption capacity, seagrass meadows are expected to contribute to Tokyo's ambitious goal of achieving complete carbon neutrality by 2050, on time.
However, it remains uncertain whether Japan, as an industrialized nation with the world's highest debt burden, can achieve its ambitious goals as swiftly as planned. Nevertheless, Japan has demonstrated in the past its ability to set global trends and adaptability of its population. With a strong emphasis on innovation and technology, coupled with societal readiness for change, Japan could continue to lead the way in renewable energy.
A standout example of Japan's commitment to sustainable urban development is the Azabudai Hills project in Tokyo. Developed by the Japanese real estate company Mori Building Co., this ambitious initiative is focused on sustainability and environmental friendliness. The Azabudai Hills aims not only to become an architectural landmark but also to set standards in green infrastructure and renewable energy. Through innovative approaches such as vertical gardens, regenerative energy systems, and smart resource management, the Azabudai Hills exemplifies Japan's efforts towards a sustainable future. This initiative underscores Japan's willingness to pursue ambitious goals and lead the world in innovative solutions, despite economic challenges and high debt levels.
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