Japan Implements Energy Conservation Measures Amidst Power Shortage

In the aftermath of the devastating earthquake and tsunami in March 2011, the Japanese government has taken proactive steps to address the anticipated power shortage this summer. The severe damage to power plants has resulted in a projected 10% shortfall of electricity supply in the service areas of Tokyo Electric Power Co. (TSE:9501) and Tohoku Electric Power Co. (TSE:9506). To mitigate this crisis, the government has introduced a range of energy conservation measures targeting households and large-scale power consumers.

Key Takeaways:

• The government aims to reduce residential power use in affected areas by 15% this summer.
• Switching from air conditioners to electric fans can cut power use by half, while turning off lights during the day can reduce electricity consumption by 5%.
• Dialing down refrigerator settings from high to medium results in power savings of 2%.
• Unplugging electronics when not in use and cooking rice for the entire day in the early morning can also contribute to energy savings.
• Households account for approximately 30% of the country's overall power consumption.
• The government cannot force households to save energy but plans to invoke the law to restrict power consumption by large users such as factories and commercial facilities.

Statistics:

• The power shortage is projected to be 10% short of demand this summer.
• The government aims to reduce residential power use by 15%.
• Electric fan usage can cut power consumption by 50%.
• Turning off lights during the day can reduce electricity consumption by 5%.
• Dialing down refrigerator settings from high to medium results in power savings of 2%.

Sources:

• "Japan draws up host of energy conservation measures for households amid power shortage" by Asia Pulse, May 10.
• (Nikkei), no date provided.