Japan’s strategic response to energy security and climate crises

Japan, historically burdened by its reliance on energy imports, continues to strategize its energy security in response to various global crises, including the 1973 oil crisis, 2011 Fukushima disaster, and the recent Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Given its reliance on Middle Eastern countries for 90% of its crude oil needs, maintaining stable relationships with suppliers such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia is crucial for Japan.

In 2022, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida held discussions with leaders from these countries to devise strategies against oil price hikes and stabilize global oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) markets.

A significant portion of Japan’s LNG supply comes from Qatar, another key country in its energy diplomacy.

Kishida’s diplomatic visits to these countries in 2023 reaffirmed their strategic importance.

Beyond solidifying ties, Japan is also diversifying its energy portfolio.

The recent aggression from Russia has led Japan to reconsider nuclear power despite previous public sentiment post-Fukushima disaster.

With rising energy costs and power shortage warnings partly due to climate change impacts, Japan announced plans in 2022 to restart idle nuclear plants and potentially extend their lifespans.

An agreement with France in 2023 bolstered Japan’s push for next-generation nuclear plants, focusing on decarbonization and stable energy supply.

Meanwhile, Japan continues to import LNG, touted as a cleaner energy source, and plans to construct a strategic LNG buffer.

Additionally, collaborations are underway to develop cleaner energy sources such as blue ammonia, and renewables are targeted to contribute to 36–38% of the power supply by 2030.

Japan’s energy strategy also involves balancing its alliances, particularly between the US and Iran, to prevent potential disruptions in the Gulf region’s energy flow.

Simultaneously, it maintains a stake in Russian oil fields, even as it condemns Russia’s aggressive actions.

As climate change escalates, Japan’s focus on achieving net-zero targets adds to the complexity of its energy security efforts, involving a combination of diplomatic measures, diversified energy sources, and global partnerships.

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