Japan tilts toward nuclear energy with METI back in driver's seat
TOKYO -- Japan's energy policy is expected to turn more nuclear power friendly under new Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, with officials with deep ties to the pro-nuclear Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry taking up top party and government posts.
Those appointments will bring METI back to the core of policymaking after it was sidelined under previous Prime Minster Yoshihide Suga, who pushed measures opposed by the ministry. This time, its sway may extend as far as foreign policy as the new government focuses on economic security, for which Kishida has created a new cabinet post.
The nuclear issue is particularly pressing. The basic energy policy set to be approved by the new cabinet this month includes nuclear in the future electricity mix but makes no mention of building, expanding or updating power plants. Japan's existing facilities are all set to reach the end of their 60-year life span by 2060.
Akira Amari, who has been appointed secretary-general of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, is expected to advocate for a greater role for nuclear energy, which Amari has called "a must" for pivoting away from fossil fuels.
https://asia.nikkei.com/Politics/Japan-tilts-toward-nuclear-energy-with-METI-back-in-driver-s-seat