Japan’s Energy Needs Post-Fukushima – An Update

Introduction

Two years after the Fukushima earthquake, Japan’s energy market remains in transition – with global implications. Only 5% of Japan’s nuclear capacity is operational as of January 2013. Safety concerns have caused other countries, notably Germany, to plan nuclear phase-outs.

Energy saving measures have reduced Japan’s electricity consumption. Power generators have switched to alternative fuels, notably natural gas. This has intensified global competition for LNG cargoes, led to cargo diversions from other markets and contributed to rising prices for flexible LNG.

How will Japan’s short- and long-term energy needs be met? What is the role of nuclear? What are the implications for LNG markets and global repercussions?

In her presentation Post Fukushima LNG Market in Japan Ms Chikako Ishiguro presented her view of the current situation and its implications . Ms Ishiguro is  is the Senior Researcher and Analyst at Osaka Gas. She is a member of the Energy Resources and International Business Unit of the company. She is a co-author of several Oxford Institute of Energy Studies papers: ‘Pricing and Demand for LNG in China’ (2006), ‘A New Paradigm for Natural Gas Pricing in Asia: A Perspective on Market’ (2009), and ‘A realistic perspective on Japan’s LNG Demand after Fukushima’ (2012).

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