An uncertain future for all energy plans

November 16, 2012

Energy measures left up in the air

http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20121116_45.html

Japan's economic policy is not the only thing that is facing an uncertain future. So are plans for energy.

In September, the government mapped out new energy measures. They included the termination of nuclear power generation by the 2030's.

The government was also planning to come up by year end with a framework for introducing renewable and other forms of alternative energy.

Final decisions on these matters are made at meetings of the National Policy Minister, the Economy, Trade and Industry Minister and by other cabinet officials.

But it's now unclear whether such meetings will be held by the end of the year.

In addition, debate on the country's comprehensive basic energy plan has been shelved. The plan was expected to address future electricity needs.