Nuclear power will be essential if Japan is to reach its goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2050, the country’s energy minister has told the Financial Times, saying that power shortages this winter have helped to shift public debate over the sector.
Heavy snowfalls that brought Japan to the brink of power cuts last month underlined the continued need for nuclear, said Hiroshi Kajiyama, who is responsible for energy in his role as minister for economy, trade and industry.
The comments reflect a dramatic shake-up in Japanese policy as it shifts back to focus on reducing emissions after a decade of relying on fossil fuels in the wake of the Fukushima nuclear disaster.