Japan’s Energy Policy and Community Power Movement After the Fukushima Nuclear Accident

Abstract

This chapter discusses Japan’s Energy policy after the Fukushima nuclear accident of March 11, 2011, and which is the largest nuclear accident since the 1986 Chernobyl accident. In response, Germany and several other governments adopted a policy of energy shift for promoting energy efficiency, renewables, and denuclearization. How has Japan’s energy policy changed since the accident? If it remains unchanged or with only minor modifications, what are main reasons? This chapter explores these questions analyzing documents and news clippings, and interview with key players. The relative weakness of counter-veiling power of opposing political parties and civil society provides the context for explaining Japan’s relatively unchanged energy policy. An inner circle of vested interests called the “nuclear village” (genpatsu mura) still stands against real reforms. However, local level power movements, especially, active in Aizu and other areas in Fukushima Prefecture reveal new ways to build public support for an energy transition.