Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book illustrates that Japan's energy policy-making process has been dominated by the iron triangle of bureaucrats, industry groups and politicians. It examines the historical evolution of Japan's energy policy and energy security strategy. The analysis of the evolution of Japan's energy policy in the aftermath of the 1970s oil crises speaks to Japan's past experience with responding to external shocks. The main attraction of coal has been its plentiful supply in the Asia-Pacific region and close proximity of coal-rich countries to Japan. With Japan's commitment to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions abatement since the Kyoto protocol, the government has been committed to reducing Japan's reliance on coal, the most emissions-intensive fossil fuel. The book summarizes Japan's major energy security challenges and the adequacy of current energy strategy and institutional arrangements that govern Japan's energy sector for tackling the existing challenges.