News Navigator: Will Japan have sufficient electricity supply this winter?

The Mainichi Shimbun answers some common questions readers may have about the balance of Japan’s electricity supply and demand this winter.

Question: We use a lot of electricity in winter, but will we need to save power this season?

Answer: For the first time in two years, the Japanese government will not ask households and businesses to save energy this winter. A stable supply of electricity requires a reserve ratio of at least 3%, which indicates the surplus capacity of supply over demand. This year’s reserve ratio is above 5% across the country, even assuming once-in-a-decade cold temperatures. The Japan Meteorological Agency forecasts that temperatures this winter will be normal or higher nationwide.

Q: Does that mean we can rest assured?

A: The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry says that the situation “does not allow for optimism” because the main source of power supply, thermal power plants, are aging. The reserve ratio for January 2024 is expected to be 5.2% in the Hokkaido, Tohoku and Tokyo areas, where nuclear power stations are not operating. However, if thermal plants are shut down due to unexpected events such as a disaster or equipment trouble, supply and demand could become severe. Solar power, which is becoming increasingly popular, is not as strong as in summer because the use of heating equipment increases when there is less sunlight during winter.

Q: What kind of measures are being taken?

A: The government is asking electric power companies to prevent unexpected shutdowns through thorough facility inspections and other measures. Another issue is to strengthen power transmission lines that allow for the flexible exchange of electricity among different supply areas. Energy-saving measures by consumers are also effective. This will also lead to a reduction in electricity costs, which are rising due to soaring fuel prices.

Q: What can we do?

A: According to the ministry, the largest daily use of electricity by households in winter is for heating, which accounts for 32.7% of the total. If the temperature setting of heaters is lowered from 22 to 20 degrees Celsius, it will save 2.7% of electricity. However, it is not advisable to be too patient. We should be conscious of such things as “reducing electricity use without undue effort,” “shifting the time of day when appliances are used” and “switching to energy-saving products.”

(Japanese original by Kazuki Sakuma, Business News Department)