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Japan's post-Fukushima challenge – implications from the German experience on renewable energy policy

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... Less time spent on pipework means more time for the crew to spend on science and other tasks focused on high-priority exploration." [4] The crew uses a specially shaped funnel and hose for urine and a chair for defecation. The funnel and seat can be used simultaneously, reflecting feedback from female astronauts. ...
... It provides ideal body contact to ensure everything works as it should." [4] Space toilets include foot restraints and handles for astronauts to keep them from floating away. Everyone positions themselves differently when "going", and consistent astronaut feedback indicates that traditional thigh straps are inconvenient." ...
... Everyone positions themselves differently when "going", and consistent astronaut feedback indicates that traditional thigh straps are inconvenient." [4] Toilet paper, wipes, and gloves are disposed of in watertight bags. Solid waste in individual watertight bags is compacted in removable faecal storage tubes. ...
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... On March 11, 2011, a 9.0 magnitude earthquake hit the Tohoku area in Japan. This region was suffered a severe tsunami (Huenteler et al., 2012) which demolished the protection wall surrounding the Tokyo Electric Power Company Fukushima-Daiichi nuclear power territory (Vivoda 2014;Werner, 2016). The tsunami caused the radiation containment of nuclear reactors and led two catastrophic explosions due to a coolant failure (Zhang et al., 2012). ...
... The catastrophe showed the inadequacies in the electric power methodologies. Because Nuclear stations provided almost onethird of Japan's electricity before the Fukushima catastrophe (Vivoda and Manicom, 2011), the country's electricity sector plunged into a massive crisis afterwards (Huenteler et al., 2012). After the disaster, Japan revisited its energy policies aiming at the erosion of the dependency on the nuclear energy sources (Kuramochi, 2015). ...
... Before Fukushima, the renewable energies had small ratio. Despite political backing for the investment subsidies and a Renewable Portfolio Standard, Maruyama et al. (2007) accented that Japan's non-fossil fuel energy strategy was not contributing to its renewable energy consumption: "it was (policy was) impeding renewable energy use rather than contributing to the spread of it" (Huenteler et al., 2012). ...
Chapter
The aim of this study was to explore hydropower energy in Japan. The hydropower energy is one of the major source in the Japan. Using for electricity production of hydropower can be drew back to Meiji epoch. In Japan, the hydropower energy exhibit more or less constant level in mix of the electricity production but the largest electricity source is generated by hydropower until the middle of 1960s. After March 11, 2011, a 9.0 magnitude earthquake hit the Tohoku area in Japan, Japan's one of main strategy is to increase hydropower share more than 17%.
... In these years, nuclear energy generation was more important than hydroenergy, and nuclear energy production was accepted as quasi-indigenous, cheap, and a low carbon power resource (Huenteler, Kanie, & Schmidt, 2012). ...
... These policies gave successful results and the importance of hydropower and nuclear energy generations providing positive effects on the environmental conditions rose. On 11 March 2011, a 9.0 magnitude earthquake occurred in the Tohoku region in Japan, and caused the tsunami that (Huenteler et al., 2012) destroyed the protection wall surrounding the nuclear power zone 1 (Vivoda, 2014;Werner, 2016) and caused radiation leakage in the nuclear reactors. Moreover, due to a coolant failure, two catastrophic explosions emerged (Bildirici, 2019;Zhang, Ishihara, Mclellan, & Tezuka, 2012). ...
... In October 2011, Japan revised its energy program to reduce its nuclear energy dependence (Huenteler et al., 2012). In March 2012, the government decided to mitigate GHG emissions, the targets were revised and they determined new energy and environmental policies. ...
Article
In this paper, the life span of hydro and nuclear energy generations and the relationship between hydro and nuclear energy generations, environmental pollution, and economic growth were investigated for Japan covering the period of 1960–2018 by employing the Bathtub‐Weibull curve and Markov switching‐vector error correcting (MSVEC) method, respectively. According to the Bathtub‐Weibull curve analysis, a rising failure rate for nuclear energy was found, indicating that the life of nuclear energy has expired, but a decreasing failure rate for hydroelectric energy has been detected. Then two different MSVEC models were used. The MSVEC method, unlike traditional approaches, determines the relationship between variables under different regimes. The results of MSVEC methods indicate three important points. First, regime‐dependent asymmetry and regime changes are crucial for policy recommendations. Second, the shocks to hydropower and nuclear energy generations cause temporary deviations from the long‐run growth path in both regimes. Lastly, the increase in hydropower generation leads to a decrease in environmental pollution and an increase in GDP, and an increase in nuclear power generation increases pollution and growth in both regimes.
... Due to growing demand, increasing fuel prices, and heightened opposition to fossil and nuclear energy, electricity shortages are likely to occur in the future. Introducing various types of renewable energy sources, including solar, wind, and biomass energy, is a matter of great urgency [1], especially after the Fukushima earthquake in Japan on 11 March 2011 [2]. However, not all electricity shortage problems can be solved by renewable energy sources alone due to their capacity limitations. ...
... with weights w i ∈ ℝ, should be minimised. In (9), (x i (t) − x *i ) 2 indicates the squared amount of curtailment for each EMC. As the curtailment of electricity causes inconvenience to customers, their welfare increases as the amount of curtailment decreases. ...
... The time transition of E(t), defined as 2 , is plotted by a red line in Fig. 13. Here, E(t) is the total curtailment by the EMCs at time t, and it indicates the control performance in terms of customer welfare. ...
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This study examines a distributed direct load control (DLC) problem for maximising customer welfare in a power system for the network communication of energy management controllers (EMCs). A model is first built to describe the dynamics and communication intervals of the EMCs with a distributed and uniform controller. The controller conditions are then derived to stabilise the system and to converge the power imbalance to zero at an assigned rate. The control condition that maximises customer welfare is then found. Furthermore, an optimal controller that maximises customer welfare over a given network communication is proposed, and the performance degradation caused by distributed management is evaluated. This study reveals that even though moving from a centralised to a distributed DLC can degrade customer welfare, this degradation can be reduced by considering consumer properties and network topologies of the EMCs. Numerical examples with real consumption data are also presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
... Haas et al. (2018) and Yaqoot et al. (2016) emphasized the importance of regulatory support in implementing decentralized RE technologies. Huenteler et al. (2012) also mentioned this barrier, which investigated market development approaches in Japan and Germany and subsequently inferred policy recommendations for Japan. They suggest that, for an effective RE policy, the government should reduce the impact of industry interest on the regulatory structure because it can impede the diffusion process. ...
... The lack of policies and regulatory support, especially from the government, can increase the disinterest (PVB-1) and weak engagement of consumers (PVB-82), incapability to avail of PV systems due to low buying power (PVB-39), to name a few of the 36 barriers that it impacts. In this manner, policy measures that support consumers to avail of PV systems are paramount for its rapid diffusion (Huenteler et al., 2012;Karakaya & Sriwannawit, 2015). ...
... An analysis of the energy policies of the countries that transition into RES [48,49,50,51], Germany in particular, reveals that the most efficient and effective RES-based electricity generation incentive mechanism is the source-dependent and long-term FiT mechanism. The success of this core RES-E incentive scheme relies on a combination of a predictable legislation and robust policy framework. ...
... The success of this core RES-E incentive scheme relies on a combination of a predictable legislation and robust policy framework. The scheme is implemented along with a set of complementary policies such as R&D and innovation subsidies, capital investment subsidies, direct funding, tax exemptions, grid access support and emissions trading system [48,49,50,52]. ...
Article
Capital investment cost is the major obstacle to the increasing share of electricity from renewable energy sources (RES-E). Therefore, RES-E incentive mechanisms are incorporated into markets to compensate cost-related barriers and to increase RES-E deployment rate. In this study, the impact of direct capital investment subsidy on RES-E in generation expansion planning (GEP) has been analyzed and deployment rates of renewable power plants have been defined. The effect of current subsidy mechanisms on the installed power capacity of various sources has also been analyzed and policy recommendations have been put forth in the light of the characteristics of Turkey’s current subsidization mechanism and its outcomes. Genetic algorithm was applied to solve the GEP problem. The share of non-hydro renewable power plants for future additions in overall installed power was determined as 9.45% without the proposed incentive, while it was estimated to rise to 13.65% when it was promoted by direct capital investment subsidy of 50%. The deployment rates of renewable power plants are expected to grow as the imported coal share in total installed power is expected to decline after applying the proposed subsidy.
... Aktualnie jednym z najważniejszych problemów Japonii jest niska samowystarczalność i bezpieczeństwo sektora energetycznego [Huenteler, Schmidt, Kanie, 2012;Vivoda, 2012;Portugal-Pereira, Esteban, 2014]. Charakterystyczny dla struktury wymiany handlu towarowego jest również relatywnie duży udział kilku dominujących grup produktów [Tomeczek, Tomeczek, 2017, s. 162-164]. ...
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Aby zrozumieć niezwykle skomplikowaną sytuację ekonomiczną współczesnej Japonii, niezbędne jest poznanie trudnej historii tego kraju. Restauracja Meiji stanowiła rewolucją w japońskim społeczeństwie i gospodarce. W jej wyniku Japonia przekształciła się z państwa quasi-feudalnego w globalną potęgę ekonomiczną. Industrializacja Japonii wraz ze znaczeniem, jakie miała dla całej Azji, znalazły odzwierciedlenie w teorii klucza lecących gęsi K. Akamatsu. Japończycy nadzwyczaj umiejętnie zaadaptowali najlepsze instytucje krajów zachodnich, jednocześnie zachowując swoją niepowtarzalną tożsamość. Restauracja Meiji stanowi inspirację dla twórców współczesnych reform gospodarczych, które mogą wyprowadzić Japonię z wieloletniej stagnacji. Tak zwane trzy strzały Abenomics to reformy monetarne, fiskalne i strukturalne, których najważniejszym i najbardziej kontrowersyjnym elementem są rewolucyjne zmiany polityki monetarnej wprowadzane przez Bank Japonii. Głównym celem badawczym autora niniejszej pracy była identyfikacja czynników i barier wzrostu gospodarczego w Japonii ze szczególnym uwzględnieniem przyczyn długookresowej stagnacji gospodarczej po 1989 r. Przeprowadzona analiza japońskiej gospodarki dotycząca bardzo długiego okresu (1868–2018) pozwoli na głębsze zrozumienie przyczyn zarówno powojennego cudu gospodarczego, jak i okresu zwanego „straconymi dekadami”. Ewolucja gospodarki Japonii została przedstawiona na podstawie analizy źródeł historycznych, japońskich i międzynarodowych baz danych oraz najważniejszych pozycji w literaturze przedmiotu dotyczących wzrostu gospodarczego, polityki ekonomicznej i stagnacji sekularnej. Niniejsza praca stanowi atrakcyjną propozycję z perspektywy nauk ekonomicznych, politycznych i historycznych szczególnie dla osób zainteresowanych tematyką Japonii.
... Germany's strong IPRP system has played a critical role in fostering innovation in solar and wind technologies. The country's investment in R&D and the protection of intellectual property rights have enabled it to become a global leader in renewable energy, significantly improving its energy structure (Huenteler et al. 2012). Therefore, we hypothesize: Hypothesis H2a: IPRP indirectly reduces CE by promoting the improvement of ES. ...
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Our study examines the relationship between intellectual property rights protection (IPRP) and carbon emissions (CE) using an unbalanced panel data set from 116 countries spanning 2008–2020. The analysis reveals a positive relationship between IPRP and CE. Mechanism tests and nonlinear analysis further elucidate this relationship. The mediation effect results indicated that IPRP indirectly fostered CE growth by inhibiting energy structure’s improvement, demonstrating that IPRP exacerbated the dependence on traditional high-carbon energy sources, hindering the transition to cleaner, more efficient energy systems. The analysis also revealed that IPRP indirectly promoted the increase of CE by promoting technological progress and economic growth. The moderation effect results suggest that political stability could mitigate the positive impact of IPRP on CE. Furthermore, the analysis reveals an inverted U-shaped relationship between IPRP and CE, indicating that while IPRP promotes an increase in CE in the initial stages, its intensification suppresses CE growth beyond a turning point. Hence, our study provides new theoretical and empirical evidence to understand the complex relationship between IPRP and CE. It also offers policy recommendations for effectively integrating global carbon reduction efforts with intellectual property policies.
... The data from Table 1 above helps to enhance an understanding of the viewpoint of industrialists and policymakers toward renewable energy concern and their present condition regarding renewable energy. The higher average knowledge rating among policymakers results in their responsibility to formulate policies and implement them regarding renewable energy resources (Huenteler et al., 2012). The industrial class tended to be more optimistic about their difficulties and higher regarding their overwhelmingly positive experiences, such as getting hands-on experience. ...
Preprint
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Energy security concerns, resource depletion, and environmental degradation have resulted from the world’s reliance on fossil fuels; this is an urgent research issue that needs resolution. As an alternative to fossil fuels, the key focus of this study was to assess the viability of an extensive combination of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower. The other objectives included assessing the current state of renewable technologies, identifying strategies to promote extensive adoption, analyzing integration challenges, and determining their capacity to meet global energy demands. The study was conducted using a descriptive technique and quantitative analysis. The study population comprised individuals with expertise in renewable energy, such as policymakers and industrialists. Ten individuals were selected using the purposive sampling method; five were industrialists, and five were policymakers. The data was gathered via surveys, and Excel was utilized to perform the statistical analysis. The research findings highlighted a clear trend of increasing consumption of renewable energy sources over the years, particularly evident within the European Union. This information provides policymakers with valuable evidence of the union’s dedication to sustainability. Developed nations and developing nations both demonstrated increasing trends in investment, suggesting growing international recognition of the renewable energy industry. However, the most striking pattern here is that younger people are much more knowledgeable about renewable energy technologies and more familiar with their effects, indicating that the future of adoption lies in the hands of generations to come. The study’s findings indicate that despite the presence of obstacles, there is an increasing impetus for the worldwide integration of renewable energy sources to address energy requirements and mitigate emissions. Prominent suggestions encompass mitigating obstacles to integration, establishing policies that provide support, funding ongoing research, and encouraging collaboration among stakeholders to facilitate the pivotal shift towards a sustainable energy environment.
... Modifications to the EEG in subsequent years reflected evolving political landscapes and responses to challenges, including the Fukushima disaster in 2011 [68,[70][71][72]. The Energy Security of Supply Act empowers regulatory acts to ensure individual responsibility for backup solutions, aligning with Germany's focus on increasing energy efficiency and achieving 2030 energy and climate goals [73]. ...
Article
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The emerging energy transition is particularly described as a move towards a cleaner, lower-carbon system. In the context of the global shift towards sustainable energy sources, this paper reviews the potential and roadmap for hydrogen energy as a crucial component of the clean energy landscape. The primary objective is to present a comprehensive literature overview, illuminating key themes, trends, and research gaps in the scientific discourse concerning hydrogen production and energy policy. This review focuses particularly on specified geographic contexts, with an emphasis on understanding the unique energy policies related to renewable energy in Brazil, Austria, and Germany. Given their distinct social systems and developmental stages, this paper aims to delineate the nuanced approaches these countries adopt in their pursuit of renewable energy and the integration of hydrogen within their energy frameworks. Brazil exhibits vast renewable energy potential, particularly in wind and solar energy sectors, positioning itself for substantial growth in the coming years. Germany showcases a regulatory framework that promotes innovation and technological expansion, reflecting its highly developed social system and commitment to transitioning away from fossil fuels. Austria demonstrates dedication to decarbonization, particularly through the exploration of biomethane for residential heating and cooling.
... FIT structure primarily supports small-scale generation in the UK, while various US states have applied FITs to promote residential and commercial rooftop solar projects [92]. Japan introduced a new FIT with high PV tariff rates post-Fukushima [93]. ASEAN member countries have embraced FITs to reach a 23 percentage share of renewable energy in their energy generation mix by 2025 [94]. ...
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The escalating global demand for energy has coincided with economic development, while Bangladesh's reliance on renewable energy remains modest at 4.59%. Investigating economically viable solutions such as solar, biomass, and other renewable sources, the research underscores the pivotal role of sound policies and a strategic plan in transforming the current energy landscape. Despite facing various challenges, particularly in technology, the implementation of sound policies and a strategic plan can substantially alter the current landscape. By reviewing the Renewable Energy Policy of 2008 and incorporating recommendations from United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in 2023, this paper not only delves into challenges and future prospects but also aligns with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) aimed at achieving affordable and clean energy. This study contributes valuable insights by proposing methodologies to generate renewable energy by offering a comprehensive overview of the present energy scenario in Bangladesh, with a focus on strategic policy recommendations, thus surpassing previous efforts in the literature. The paper, in its entirety, strives to foster the adoption of renewable energy while concurrently mitigating reliance on conventional fossil fuels.
... It is also a large installer of rooftop solar PV systems connected to the grid [60]. The country shifted its policies toward renewable energy in 2011 after the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster, and solar power became an important national priority [61,62]. Japan's cumulative solar capacity reached 50 GW by the end of 2017, which made it the world's second-largest solar PV installer after China [63]. ...
Article
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The growth in global electricity demand, price volatility, and global warming is diverting the attention of power producers to look for alternative green energy sources, more specifically, solar photovoltaic (SPV). Rooftop solar PV (RSPV) is a significant contributor to the successful development and deployment of SPV in any country. Therefore, developing countries such as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) are seeking alternative energy sources. According to climatological studies, Saudi Arabia has an average of 3230 sun hours annually, indicating significant potential for producing solar energy. The article investigated the characteristics of policies of countries that have had massive success in developing RSPV systems like China, the US, Germany, Italy, Spain, Japan, and India). Each country has its unique policies that result in many policy structures. Therefore, it is beyond the content of this report to provide a complete overview of all policies for the selected countries. Instead, information will focus on specific aspects of solar policy in each of the seven countries. As part of the RSPV policy assessment in Saudi Arabia, this study shows the key vectors of the selected countries’ success in their rooftop policies’ examination, and eventually, it presents a clear policy assessment of KSA’s rooftop solar PV policy
... Although nuclear energy is technically feasible and partly offensively advocated by scientists as a 'climate-friendly' technology, the debate on its role in energy mixes is politically contested (McBeth et al., 2022). This is especially the case in Germany, which decided on the nuclear phase-out after the Fukushima incident of 2011 (Huenteler et al., 2012) and did not welcome the EU's declaration of nuclear energy as a 'green' source of energy (von der Burchard, 2022). Surprisingly, although with similar histories regarding public support and protest towards nuclear energy in the 1970s (Nelkin & Pollak, 1980), as well as akin in size, economy and industry, France has a completely different stance on nuclear energy compared to Germany. ...
... An increase in the urban population in Japan may be a factor in the increase in greenhouse gas emissions. On the other side, despite an increase in GDP per capita, a rise in the share of renewable energy sources of energy production might contribute to a decrease in greenhouse gas emissions in Germany (Huenteler et al., 2012). Finally, Figure 4 shows the relative transition paths of countries in Club 3. ...
Article
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Environmental degradation, such as climate crisis, global warming, etc., is one of the crucial issues for countries. Studies in the literature analyze the convergence in environmental degradation regarding the environmental convergence hypothesis using different indicators such as carbon dioxide emissions, ecological footprint, etc. to identify the differences in environmental quality across countries. This study tests the environmental convergence hypothesis for G-7 countries over the period 1997-2018. To do so, we use greenhouse gas emissions per capita as an indicator of environmental degradation and apply non-linear dynamic factor model developed by Phillips and Sul (2007). According to the results, countries do not converge to a single equilibrium point. However, Phillips and Sul (2007) convergence methodology allows us to identify possible convergence clubs. The club clustering algorithm identifies three convergence clubs, each converging to a different steady-state. Club 1, which converges to higher greenhouse gas emissions per capita level, includes Canada and United States, whereas Club 2 includes Germany and Japan, and Club 3 includes France, Italy, and the United Kingdom. The results confirm that the that the environmental convergence hypothesis does not hold for G-7 countries.
... Likewise, Brudemann et al., (2013) for Spanish; Basseur et al., (2013) for Netherlands incorporated consistency in national subsidy schemes an important factor in diffusion of PV system. Inefficient feed-in tariff scheme can impede the adoption of PV system (Huenteler et al., 2012;Papado-Poulos, 2013). Brudermann et al., (2013) conceptualized the existence of non-cooperative building experts; the regional government decision process and lengthy process of permit issuance have negatively impacted adoption behavior of PV system. ...
Article
This study seeks to analyze various factors that affect consumers’ behavior towards adaptability of solar energy in district Peshawar. For the purpose, utilizing the survey of 373 respondents from Peshawar, logistic regression model was employed to investigate which technical factors and regulatory & institutional factors act as barriers or drivers in adoptability behavior of consumers towards solar energy. In results, it is concluded that the technical factors including: lack of skillful technicians and complexity in usage of the solar system act as barriers which have adverse and statistically significant impacts on the adoptability behavior of consumers towards solar energy. Moreover, among various technical drivers, the technology of net-metering remains the most significant driver to motivate individuals towards solar adoption. In terms of regulatory and institutional factors, encouraging private sector participation and strengthening regulation and legal framework remains drivers in enhancing solar adoption. Although, lack of institutions and government support for financial support, in-adequate policy and bureaucratic processes of registration and installation of solar energy have been found as barriers which negatively affect adoption of photovoltaic systems. Based on the results, it is recommended that both regulatory reforms as well as technological innovations through research and development must be supported to promote eco-friendly and sustainable solar energy. Keywords: Classification: Consumers’ Behavior; Solar Energy; Regulations and Institutions
... As prices for PV modules have fallen dramatically, profit margins have dropped, making it far harder for a high-cost country such as Japan to compete. Sharp and Kyocera are still in the top ten in terms of market share, but for the foreseeable future, China has a stranglehold on the market (GTM Research, 2014;Huenteler et al., 2012;Roney, 2010). ...
Conference Paper
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Japanese energy policy 7 years after Fukushima. In 2011 the disaster of Fukushima led to Japan losing 30% of its electricity overnight. In an article published in 2012, I described the vested interest structure of Japanese energy policy and wrote that Fukushima has created a window of opportunity for renewable energy to break the stranglehold of the vested interests – electric utilities, the nuclear village, METI, the LDP – that had gridlocked Japanese energy policy for 40 years. Early signs were encouraging, but I also wrote that it was far too early to tell what the future might bring, and that the electric utilities and the nuclear village would not give up without a fight. It is now 2018, and time to take stock of this potential window of opportunity. Has it remained open, or is it closing? What this case study of Japan suggests is that while there have been permanent changes to how Japan relates to solar PV, the prospects of wind power, which always faced greater vested interest resistance, are far bleaker. And that part of the reason for this is that the old vested energy interests, while being subjected to significant reforms are gradually regaining some of the power that they lost after Fukushima.
... ways as yet to provide complete insurance against environmental pollution by nuclear energy plants." The recent Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident leads to the search for an alternative safe and renewable energy source for continuous power supply [8][9][10]. The concept of SSPS comes into light only after this accident. ...
Thesis
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http://hdl.handle.net/2324/4772309 Wireless Power Transmission (WPT) technology using a satellite-to-satellite system represents a valuable and convenient technology for transferring power wirelessly among Space Solar Power Satellites (SSPS) to Satellite and potential upcoming interplanetary missions. This direct transmission offers a possible solution to deliver continuous, convenient, and unlimited energy supply to satellites help replace traditional power storage and reduce the weight and ultimately the costs of launching satellites. Satellite industries traditionally use photovoltaic cells and nuclear generators to satisfy the needed electricity needed by spacecraft. Current power generation and effective management systems occupy up to 10-25% of the satellite's mass. The concept of laser-based WPT from Energy Satellite (E-Sat) can overcome substantial problems. The current design of SSPS primarily focuses on designing a massive satellite to generate and transmit gigawatts of energy to an Earth-based ground receiving antenna. This consistent idea can be adopted for spacecraft by developing a constellation of E-Sat called Energy Orbit (E-Orbit) to supply sufficient power to spacecraft within range. It will increase the impressive performance and operational lifetime, especially for small and cube satellites using microwaves and laser-based power transmission. By developing a small scale SSPS,E-Sat for WPT application in space, followed by a practical demonstration of mother-daughter satellite and accurately evaluating the possibility for subsequent implementation. In addition, Creating 1600 E-Sats constellations to fulfill the power demand in low earth orbit. Nevertheless, another potential avenue where E-Orbit supports a possible application is its utility towards rovers and habitat. For instance, the rovers find it difficult to investigate in the far side, crater, and polar region of the Moon, where sunlight is unavailable for a few days. This challenge can be suitably overcome by employing an E-Sats, which can be used for WPT, independent of its location. Such techniques demonstrate possible applications towards power transmission for unmanned aerial vehicles for faster mapping purposes. As such, the dependence of those aerial vehicles towards fixed energy storage becomes alleviated. Simultaneously the future habitat on Mars and the Moon will receive continuous power by developing a perfect Mars and Moon E-Orbit system for interplanetary and solar-system investigation mission satellites to achieve continuous power. The theoretical modeling allows the analysis of power conversion or transmission for each unit in terms of laser impacts, transmission efficiency, and photovoltaic-cell thermal property. Maximum power transmission efficiency is calculated based on a linear approximation of power conversation between electricity-to-laser and laser-to-electricity validated by numerical simulation. This efficiency variation depends on the selection of Laser, transmitter, transmission distance, and photovoltaic cells, the same as increasing the maximum transmission efficiency of information in a wireless communication network. Consequently, this thesis gives insight into wireless power transmission in general and adequate guidelines of the satellite to satellite power transmission system design in practice. The development and demonstration of this technology can help fulfill Space Solar Power Satellites' idea to transfer gigawatts of renewable energy to Earth. Chapter 1: Introduction: This chapter contains the literature review for the energy crisis on Earth concerning the ever-growing population. The production of affordable electricity from renewable and nonrenewable energy and associate problem. Implement a new renewable power system and economic production using space-based SSPS and unique challenges to design it. The current power management systems for space and associated technologies efficiently utilize to sufficiently support diverse missions around Earth and interplanetary mission. Creating E-Sats and a constellation design in low Earth orbit E-Orbit. Chapter 2: Literature Review and E-Orbit Refence Mission Designing: This Chapter includes the necessary information on and overviews of SSPS designing and the historical development of WPT, and remarkable experiments efficiently conducted from all over the world. The numerical analysis and exercise of microwave and laser systems for wireless power transmission. The current policies and key challenges around space solar power and wireless power transmission system designing. Discussed the reference parameters for E-Sat and E-Orbit. Chapter 3: Energy Satellite: The system analysis and system engineering to develop a small-scale SSPS properly as E-Sat. The essential components, high accuracy attitude, orbital control subsystem, propulsion subsystem, active sensors, power generation, and management unit, including laser power transmission subsystem as payload for E-Sat. The power transmission efficiency and power density at receiving object to satisfy user requirements. The novelty of E-Sat compares to the historical SSPS design. The necessary orbital variables and their operational performance inside the proper orbit. Chapter 4: Energy Orbit: The practical importance of Energy Orbit and the formation flying of E-Sats in low Earth orbit. Orbital characteristics to properly transfer continuous non-disruptive laser power to customer satellite and maintaining power across Energy Orbit. The orbital characteristics and continuous interaction with the customer satellite with the specific decided range of power transmission. The system modeling and necessary phase to phase timeline for progressively developing Energy Orbit across low Earth orbit. Numerical analysis and the other significant scenario can tackle the debris removal, laser propulsion,safety, deorbiting, orbital maneuver—the driven economy and potential revenue within the 20 years of launching Energy Orbit in space. In addition, this key section suggests and recommended few subsequent policies to properly consider for the successful development of SSPS and WPT in the context of E-Orbit.Chapter 5: Interplanetary Energy Orbit: The designing and power support system for Moon and Mars as Moon Energy Orbit and Mars E-Orbit, respectively. The Constellation designing to transfer power to habitat,Rover, Orbiter, and Rover using E-Orbit. Support for deep-space mission and robotic mission using E-Orbit. Chapter 6: Conclusion: Summarized the findings of the studies by general conclusions and future scope of Energy orbit.
... However, Peter Glaser says [2] , "There are at present serious doubts that nuclear energy can be relied upon to fill a continuously larger percentage of energy requirements since there are no known ways as yet to provide complete insurance against environmental pollution by nuclear energy plants. " Glaser's comment is validated by the 2011 Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident, which also led to a search for an alternative safe and renewable energy source for continuous power supply [3][4][5] . The concept of Space Solar Power Satellite/Station (SSPS) comes into focus, particularly after this accident. ...
Article
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This paper presents an overview of space solar power satellites for the Moon and Mars mission and simultaneously demonstrates the compression of traditional power generation methods for the orbiter, lander, and habitat on Mars and the Moon. Interplanetary missions are where the space engineers work on the satellites, conceptual design of space habitat, and exploration system. The state of the art in those missions relies on radioisotope thermoelectric generators or solar panels attached with batteries to store power, both of which are plagued by limitations. For instance, when a spacecraft moves away from the Sun, the energy collection efficiency on the solar panel is reduced, and at temperatures below -100°Celsius, individual solar cells degrade unpredictably, deteriorating the performance of solar arrays. Furthermore, these power generation unit satellites carry a pack of batteries to store energy whose total system accounts for more than 10-25 % of the mass of the satellites. In an interplanetary mission, power generation and management are essential for research and investigation on the surface. For Mars, sandstorms affect the collection of energy at the attached solar panel to the rover. Moreover, the rovers must investigate at the far side of the Moon, where sunlight is unavailable for few consecutive days. This challenge can be suitably overcome by employing space solar power satellites, which can be used for wireless power transmission, independent of its location. Such techniques have possible applications towards power transmission for unmanned aerial vehicles for faster mapping purposes. As such, the dependence of those aerial vehicles towards fixed energy storage becomes alleviated. In hindsight, space solar power satellite serves as a potential for an improved energy transmission source than the traditional method for interplanetary rovers and habitat.
... However, despite these challenges, Japan became the latest major economy announcing in late 2020 its vision of reaching economy-wide carbon neutrality by 2050 27 . Debates are still ongoing on how to "design" the energy mix in the post-earthquake era without compromising Japan's decarbonization pathways [28][29][30] (see below). ...
Article
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Unexpected events such as economic crises and natural disasters can have profound implications for energy systems and climate change mitigation efforts at different levels. Here we explore the national and regional carbon emission patterns (and their drivers) for the main economic sectors in Japan between 2007 and 2015, a period shaped by the 2008 financial crisis and the 2011 Tohoku Earthquake. Following the 2011 earthquake the previously decreasing regional emissions patterns started increasing in practically all regions except Hokkaido. This was mainly due to growing coal use particularly in the Kyushu, Chugoku and Kansai regions. Furthermore, most regions experienced shifts in the dominance of different drivers of emissions over time, with a stronger initial impact from economic effects after the 2008 financial crisis, followed by energy structure after the 2011 earthquake, and then by economic effects and energy intensity. These results offer a more nuanced understanding of how individual events can affect emissions at different periods and levels (national vs. regional) to inform the design of climate change mitigation strategies. Exogenous events in Japan had lasting impacts on the energy mix and on CO2 emissions at the national and regional levels. The 2008 financial crisis mainly affected the economy, whereas the 2011 earthquake influenced energy structure, though the actual impacts vary between regions.
... Even governments within a few years of having been elected might not anymore represent people's needs and expectations (Zuboff and Maxmin, 2002;Moore and Khagram, 2004;Bruijin and Dicke, 2006). For example, the Fukushima nuclear disaster raised strong political pressures in Germany for the extension of the lifespan of the country's 17 reactors, and forced Chancellor Angela Merkel to change German energy policy and shut down all the country's nuclear power plants by 2022 (Huenteler et al., 2012). As highlighted by Benington (2007), the instability of the public value definition is also the result of the constant dialogue between citizens and politicians or public managers that reshapes the public value definition and the organisational goal of public agencies. ...
Thesis
This thesis aims to contribute to the literature that discusses the impact of e-government systems on the value that is created by public services. Specifically, this work sheds light on how Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) mediated co-production of public service offers innovative ways to produce public services and on the value they create. An in-depth analysis of how the Government as a Platform (GaaP) can enable co-production of services across the entire public administration is presented to support the proposed argument. The thesis is based on three published papers that discuss the limitations and the complexities of co-production enabled by ICTs and the specific case of the GaaP. The first paper explains that, although ICTs-mediated co-production helps to improve efficiency, it also reduces control over the public administration’s action and hence it is not suitable to produce public services that need a high level of control to deliver the expected outcome. The second paper adopts the public value perspective and explains that, in order to create value for the public, it is necessary to overcome the siloed view of value creation and thereby to serve not only the need for greater efficiency but also all citizens’ needs and expectations. Hence, when public agencies adopt ICTs-mediated co-production, they should also ensure a suitable level of control over the impact of public interests served by other public agencies. The third paper argues that the GaaP is constituted by multiple platforms and ecosystems which favour co-production of more services for citizens but also decrease control over the impact on other policy domains. The impossibility to control implications for other policy domains threatens public value creation. From the study of the Italian public administration that has recently adopted an e-government architecture based on the GaaP principles, it has emerged that to mitigate negative externalities of co-production, public agencies should adopt a governance mechanism called public value orchestration, which consists of continuous configuration of production in order to meet multiple needs and expectations.
... These studies often compare the energy policies, particularly after Fukushima, between Japan and Germany and suggest that Japan should follow the example of Germany, which has successfully been transitioning from nuclear to a renewable energy-based society (e.g. Iida 2008;Dewit and Kaneko 2011;Takahashi 2012;Moe 2012;Huenteler et al. 2012;Greenpeace 2012). ...
Thesis
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Japan’s nuclear policy gained the attention of both domestic and international scholars after the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster in 2011. Three years later, in April 2014, the LDP, the political party in power, released the latest energy policy aiming to re-start nuclear power plants despite the increasing opposition against it among other political parties, media, and the public. Many scholars discuss the necessity of nuclear power in Japan from economic and environmental perspectives of energy. They also identify that the interlocking relationship between bureaucracy and business in nuclear power is the reason behind Japan’s adherence to it. However, there is insufficient understanding of Japan’s specific drivers of energy policy and of the historic emergence and progression of this relationship that promoted its nuclear dependence. Therefore, this thesis seeks to understand why Japan still adheres to nuclear power even after Fukushima. By developing and applying a framework to conduct a historical analysis, this thesis offers insight into how the nation’s energy politics developed in the last nine decades. This research identified that the interlocking relationship that has promoted nuclear power has its origin in the era of WWII and was strengthened by politicizing energy security threats over time. The ideology of energy independence also contributed to the increasing reliance on nuclear power. There is a change in Japan’s energy politics observed after Fukushima and an increasing number of the public began to participate in the nation’s energy debates, which shows a potential future paradigm shift in the nation’s energy policy.
... According to Huenteler et al. (2012), on 11 March 2011 a 9.0-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Japan's Tohoku region, followed by a tsunami and a nuclear meltdown at the Fukushima Dai-ichi power plant. The accident, and the continued struggle to contain radiation at the 4.7 GW nuclear facilities, plunged the country's electricity sector into crisis. ...
Article
Full-text available
For most of its history, even though Switzerland has relied on imported fossil fuels to meet its energy needs, low-carbon energy sources such as hydropower and nuclear power have been at the forefront of the electricity generation sector for the last 50 years. However, after the Fukushima nuclear accident in 2011, Switzerland decided to phase out nuclear energy by 2034 through the “Energy Strategy 2050”, a national plan adopted in 2017 that represents a structural break in its energy pattern. Compared to Germany, Switzerland has chosen a less environmentally harmful but more risky strategy, which consists of limiting the substitution of nuclear energy with fossil fuel energy sources, while filling the gap created by the progressive nuclear phase-out through the massive development of alternative and renewable energy sources in the long term. Facing this “green challenge”, Switzerland would need to import electricity from European foreign suppliers. However, one missing element of this global reform appears in the transport sector, which still produces significant CO2 emissions. Such historical constraint would undoubtedly affect Switzerland’s energy security and independence patterns. However, the real challenge created by this nuclear phase-out may not be about becoming energy-independent, because such a deep transition necessitates important electricity imports, but rather about answering the growing electricity demand in the future and securing its energy supply, with the share of renewable energy sources becoming increasingly important. Indeed, Switzerland will have to deal with the trilemma of energy security, independence and sovereignty.
... Planın, güneş, rüzgâr ve jeotermal gibi yenilenebilir enerji kaynaklarının geliştirilmesini desteklemeyi, hidrojen kullanımını teşvik etmeyi ve fosil yakıtlara olan bağımlılığı bitirmeyi amaçladığı vurgulanmıştır Unesaki 2017, 2018). Bir diğer sebep olarak da Japonya, Fukuşima nükleer kazasından sonra, alternatif bir enerji kaynağı olarak yenilenebilir enerjiye yönelmek ve yenilenebilir enerjinin mevcut enerji üretimindeki payını arttırmak istemiştir (Huenteler, Schmidt ve Kanie, 2012;Muhammad-Sukki vd., 2014;Wakiyama ve Kuriyama, 2018). ...
Chapter
Japan has the 3rd largest economy in the world. It is a country that has proven itself not only in the Asia-Pacific region, but also in the world with its advanced technology, industry and educated labor. On the other hand, Japan meets only 10% of its energy needs with its own resources and imports the rest. In other words, it is a foreign dependent country in energy. Foreign dependency mainly consists of fossil fuels and has a significant cost to the national economy. Processes such as, the oil crisis in 1973 and the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011 were milestones for the country. In this study, the potential of traditional and renewable energy sources of Japan, one of the East Asian countries, has been examined in detail. Information on the current status and usage of the country’s current nuclear energy has been provided. The process of being affected by the country’s oil crisis in 1973 was examined. Similarly, the impact of the energy crisis after the Great East Japan Earthquake on the diversification of energy resources was determined.Finally, energy policies that can be applied to reduce the country’s dependence on fossil fuels have been evaluated.
... The liberalization still plays a significant role in the EEG discourse ( Figure 4A, topic 12), in which the German energy industry association argues that the state skimmed off the profits of market liberalization by increasing the EEG surcharge. 64 Over time, the influence of the liberalization of the German electricity market and the related power price development on newspaper coverage ceases. Closely related to the liberalization, the abuse of market power of the vertically integrated utilities in the new electricity market becomes a steady topic ( Figure 4B, topic 26). ...
Article
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Renewable energy policies have been recognized as a cornerstone in the transition toward low-emission energy systems. Media reports are an important variable in the policy-making process, interrelating politicians and the public. To understand the changes in media framing of a pioneering renewable energy support act, we collected 6,645 articles from five Germany-wide newspapers between 2000 and 2017 on the German Renewable Energy Act. We developed a structural topic model based on a change-point analysis to assess the temporal patterns of newspaper coverage. We introduced the notion of topic sentiment to elucidate the emotional content of topics. The results show that after its enactment, optimism about renewable energies dominated the media agenda. After 2012, however, the Renewable Energy Act was more associated with its costs. Such shifts in renewable energy policy framing may limit political leverage to reach ambitious climate and energy targets.
... 33). When formulating environmental policy, METI is known to prioritise economic interests and cost feasibility over ambition [65,107]. As mentioned, they also oppose stringent climate regulation such as carbon pricing. ...
Article
Full-text available
Carbon lock-in hampers the realisation of sustainable energy systems. It occurs when carbon-intensive technologies , markets and institutions co-evolve and become wedded to historical trajectories despite environmentally superior technologies being available. Multiple material and non-material causes are discussed in literature on socio-technical or energy transitions and carbon lock-in. However, these are yet to be synthesised into a comprehensive framework to guide the empirical identification of lock-in factors. Also, empirical understanding into how various causes of lock-in can interact is limited. To deepen understanding into the various types of socio-technical lock-in affecting energy transitions, we develop an encompassing analytical framework accounting for material, human, non-material and exogenous factors. In addition to carbon lock-in and path dependency, we synthesise diverse literature encompassing sustainability transitions, energy policy, innovation and firm management, economics and political economy. The resultant framework provides a finer-grained and more comprehensive understanding of lock-in than previous studies. Using Japan as a case study, we then apply this framework with two questions in mind: (i) What factors are contributing to the perpetuation of coal power in Japan? and ii) What opportunities emerge to overcome these? The empirical analysis is informed by triangulated data involving 46 semi-structured interviews and diverse documents. Our findings reveal a wide array of interacting factors that contribute to the perpetuation of coal-power in Japan and several emerging opportunities to tackle these. They also demonstrate our framework's utility as a heuristic that scholars could apply to other cases to increase empirical understanding into the multiple causes of socio-technical lock-in.
... According to Huenteler et al. (2012), on 11 March 2011 a 9.0-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Japan's Tohoku region, followed by a tsunami and a nuclear meltdown at the Fukushima Dai-ichi power plant. The accident, and the continued struggle to contain radiation at the 4.7 GW nuclear facilities, plunged the country's electricity sector into crisis. ...
Preprint
For most of its history, even though Switzerland has relied on imported fossil fuels to meet its energy needs, low-carbon energy sources such as hydropower and nuclear power have been at the forefront of the electricity generation sector for the last 50 years. However, after the Fukushima nuclear accident in 2011, Switzerland decided to phase out nuclear energy by 2034 through the “Energy Strategy 2050”, a national plan adopted in 2017 that represents a structural break in its energy pattern. Compared to Germany, Switzerland has chosen a less environmentally harmful but more risky strategy, which consists of limiting the substitution of nuclear energy with fossil fuel energy sources, while filling the gap created by the progressive nuclear phase-out through the massive development of alternative and renewable energy sources in the long term. Facing this “green challenge”, Switzerland would need to import electricity from European foreign suppliers. However, one missing element of this global reform appears in the transport sector, which still produces significant CO2 emissions. Such historical constraint would undoubtedly affect Switzerland’s energy security and independence patterns. However, the real challenge created by this nuclear phase-out may not be about becoming energy-independent, because such a deep transition necessitates important electricity imports, but rather about answering the growing electricity demand in the future and securing its energy supply, with the share of renewable energy sources becoming increasingly important. Indeed, Switzerland will have to deal with the trilemma of energy security, independence and sovereignty.
... develop advanced Gen-IV reactors with passive safety features designed to avoid past accident scenarios, or 2) step back from nuclear power, resulting in an abundant amount of used nuclear fuel (UNF) in need of treatment [1]. These two stances find some common ground using molten ...
Thesis
Full-text available
For both pyroprocessing and molten salt reactors (MSRs), it is desirable from a process control and nuclear safeguards perspective to monitor the species in the molten salts for material accountancy. Many traditional monitoring techniques, even simple salt sample retrieval, are time exhaustive or rendered useless for these systems due to the high thermal loads, high radiation zones, and corrosive nature of molten salts. Therefore, the main motivation for this work is the need for an online monitoring system for a molten salt system that is robust enough to handle the extreme environment yet deliver quantifiable salt concentrations. The intent of this dissertation is to demonstrate the combined use of cyclic voltammetry (CV) and laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) as an analytical technique for quantifying the concentration of species in the molten salt medium, mainly LiCl-KCl eutectic. CV is a robust electrochemical method that can be run without interruption and at varying speeds while LIBS has desirable qualities such as little to no sample preparation, low limits of detection (LOD), and rapid analysis. Three experimental programs were developed to demonstrate the parallel and eventual combined use of these methods. The first investigates the parallel use of CV and LIBS on a SmCl3 salt system. The second focuses on improvements to the experimental system and adds GdCl3 as an additional salt component. The final experimental program focuses on combining CV and LIBS through sensor fusion to monitor UCl3, GdCl3, and MgCl2 simultaneously in a LiCl-KCl salt system.
... These changes in the energy mix for electricity generation after the Fukushima disaster likely have disturbed the linkages among the costs of electricity from various fuel sources. Many studies have investigated how the Japanese energy mix should change [4][5][6] or have analyzed Japanese people's preferences regarding energy mixes after the disaster [7,8]. However, until now, few studies have used quantitative methods to analyze how electricity prices or costs of electricity generation from various fuel sources have changed since the Fukushima disaster. ...
Article
Full-text available
This study analyzes the dynamics of the linkages among costs of electricity generation via crude oil, natural gas, and coal for the periods before and after the Fukushima accident. We find that Markov regime switching in the cost spreads between the fossil fuels has become more frequent after the Fukushima accident. Johansen and Bierens–Martins cointegration tests also indicate that since the accident, the oil and gas relationship has become more evident, while the cost relationships between coal and other fossil fuels have weakened. These results might reflect changes in Japanese energy policy since the accident to promote LNG and compensate for the reduced energy supply from closing the nuclear power plants, while concurrently coping to meet the requirements of the Paris Agreement to reduce CO2 emissions.
... There are different drivers for the development of PV installation markets in these regions. Specifically, Germany's large market share results mainly from concerns about clean or sustainable energy and employment, whereas Japan's market share is mainly driven by an energy shortage [62][63][64]. ...
Article
Government policies and investments in photovoltaic (PV) research and development (R&D) have contributed to the rapid development of a PV industry through technology push in most countries over the past decade. It is worth investigating the effectiveness of investment-drive R&D policies at a global level, particularly how they work in reducing the costs of PV technologies. This study constructs a learning curve model to assess the performance of PV R&D policies in China, Germany, the United States and Japan. Market information—for example, PV module production, PV installation and PV technology improvement—is utilised to analyse how these policies take effect. The results show that PV R&D investments are efficient in decreasing the production costs of PV modules, which positively affects the development of PV module markets. However, weak PV technology conditions (including conversion efficiency, reliability) and low PV electricity penetration levels have resulted in surpluses in PV module markets, as well as PV electricity curtailment around the world. It is suggested that future R&D policies should contribute more to improving conversion efficiencies (the structure of technology push power) and grid integration technologies (demand pull power) for PV systems.
... Since the accident at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant in 2011, the Japanese government has emphasized the further development of renewable energy, such as solar, wind power, thermal power, small hydropower and biomass, through the introduction of a feed-in tariff (FIT) (Goto et al., 2012). The FIT is a policy designed to accelerate investments in renewable energy technologies by offering long-term contracts to renewable energy producers (Huenteler et al., 2012;Goto et al., 2012). As an alternative source of energy, attention is increasingly being focused on small-scale hydropower generation in the agricultural sector. ...
Article
In this research, power generation potential is estimated using overflow discharge for eight headworks (Inuyama, Meiji-yousui, Muromatsubara, Kansakawa, Furikusa, Onyu, Hosokawa and Okajima) located in Aichi and Gifu Prefectures, and the characteristics of their power generation are clarified in order to evaluate the feasibility of small hydropower plants. The results are as follows. Firstly, overflow discharge is more stable than the discharge of intake water at the headworks, which suggests that power generation using overflow discharge is more suitable for actual power generation. Secondly, maximum power outputs of 43 kW to 2,002 kW, under a discharge utilization factor of 60%, show great potential for power generation at these eight headworks. Finally, fluctuations in monthly power generation are higher than that of annual power generation due to the influences of irrigation and seasonal changes in precipitation on water intake.
... Japan set targets to increase share of nuclear power to 50% of total generation by 2030 (Huenteler, Schmidt, & Kanie, 2012). While subsidies, tax incentives and RPS existed in the 2000s, renewables contributed minimally. ...
Chapter
Full-text available
Renewable Energy Sources-Based Electricity (RES-E) plays a key role in sustainable development – of meeting current energy demands, without adding to global warming concerns. However, as of 2017, only 8.5% of the total electricity generation came from RES-E. To boost this contribution, countries rely on strong legislative and policy support/tools. This case focuses on studying the legislative or regulatory frameworks put in place by the top three developed countries, and compares it with three developing countries, each of which are forerunners in RES-E, as of 2017. The comparative study suggests that while no single policy can be credited with the success behind rising RES-E in these countries, two key incentives are most important – namely feed-in-tariffs and renewable purchase obligations. Feed-in-tariffs act as floor price guarantee to the generator and renewable purchase obligations assures the generator of quantum of sale of the RES-E generated. When combined, these two incentives remain the most trusted policy tools even today for countries starting their journey in increasing their RES-E footprints.
... Consequently, distributed PV offers an opportunity to improve electricity reliability in contexts in which electricity services have deteriorated. In addition, while both PV applications would contribute to climate change mitigation, distributed PV provides greater resiliency in a context of growing uncertainty and incidence of climate change-related natural disasters [26][27][28]. Finally, distributed PV may be supported as a means to promote economic development of communities, either through employment (e.g., in installation) or to generate additional household income in the case that households can sell electricity to the grid [29]. ...
Article
Growing energy demands and rapid urbanization alongside an increasing urgency for climate change mitigation and resiliency make grid-connected distributed photovoltaics (PV) a critical solution in many emerging economies. However, adoption of distributed PV in these contexts has been slow due to its high upfront cost. As policies to kick-start the distributed PV market directly are often costly, this paper shows how a policy that first supports cheaper utility-scale PV deployment can create spillovers that lead to complementary cost reductions in distributed PV. Specifically, through interviews with experts in the PV industry, this paper finds that strong utility-scale deployment helps build local PV competencies and ecosystems, thereby facilitating the networks, scale, and value chains needed for distributed PV markets to develop. Harnessing these spillover effects can also reduce the upfront cost of distributed PV significantly and cost-effectively. Results of a dynamic bottom-up techno-economic model based on spillovers across PV components indicate that, in the presence of application spillovers, public financing used to initially support utility-scale PV deployment can leverage significant distributed PV cost reductions. By accelerating the profitability of distributed PV, application spillovers also enable more widespread and equitable distributed PV adoption. The paper concludes with recommendations to policymakers wishing to support more widespread distributed PV adoption in emerging and developing country contexts, with a particular focus on strategies for fostering application spillovers.
... More recently, renewable energy sources have received a significant amount of attention (Moe, 2012;Huenteler et al., 2012). This is because hydrocarbons, such as crude oil and natural gas, are one of the underlying causes for greenhouse gas ( Duffield and Woodall, 2011). ...
Article
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Why is Japan, the 4th largest oil consumer in 2016, unable to develop a globally competitive oil and gas upstream company? This paper suggests that the Japanese government should merge two oil companies, which are both under governmental control, Inpex and Japex. The analysis revisits the 2008 debate on strategies between CERA, an esteemed energy consulting company in the US, and a group of Japanese scholars. CERA suggested that Japanese energy companies should acquire a large equity stake upfront in new exploration projects and sell to new investors as the potential identified by exploration grows. Alternatively, a group of Japanese scholars suggests Japanese energy companies should acquire oil and gas upstream projects that are close to the end and adapt Japanese technology for increased and enhanced oil recovery. Desk research and interviews with four experts were conducted for this study and it was found that both strategies are necessary.Keywords: Japanese oil and gas upstream companies, Growth of businessJEL Classifications: Q40, Q48DOI: https://doi.org/10.32479/ijeep.8240
... Japan is the second largest financer of international coal power development after China (Chen and Schmidt, 2017;Zhao and Alexandroff, 2019). Although international NGOs and think tanks have examined Japan's flourishing coal industry Chen and Schmidt, 2017;Webb and Parra, 2018;Tanner, 2018;Jaiqiao et al., 2018), academic studies are notably lacking, with most post-Fukushima scholarship focused on nuclear or renewables policy (Huenteler et al., 2012;Cherp et al., 2017;Moe, 2012b;Kuramochi, 2015;Vivoda, 2012;Skea et al., 2013;Chapman and Itaoka, 2018). ...
... Japan implemented the RPS scheme from 2003, but the renewable electricity generation did not meet the expected target under the scheme (Dong and Shimada, 2017). Some scholars believe that the main reasons for the failure of RPS in Japan are regulatory factors leading to a bolstered monopoly of the incumbent power companies and failed attempts at more stringent policies for renewable energy (Huenteler et al., 2012;Dave and Kenichi, 2007). Ming et al. (2013) introduce the evolution and problems of tariff policy in China's renewable industry in detail. ...
... But such disasters often also have long-term, environmental effects (e.g., on infrastructure or soil quality) as well as political ramifications (Nohrstedt and Weible 2010;Birkland 2006) via socalled "focusing events," which call into question current policy paradigms and policymaking (Cairney and Weible 2015). In the case of flood prevention, this could result in a shift away from purely technical and infrastructure-based solutions to more sustainable spatial planning options (Hegger et al. 2014); likewise, in the case of nuclear accidents, a shift in paradigm towards renewable or more efficient energy sources could result (Huenteler, Schmidt, and Kanie 2012). When environmental problems ask for both short-and long-term responses, their connectivity appears to become crucial, as emphasised in the following two examples. ...
Article
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Environmental problems are often multi-faceted and complex by nature, consisting of diverse, intertwined dimensions. In this article, we argue that environmental problem characteristics have consequences for the selection of appropriate governance modes, and finally on policy effectiveness. We rely on an in-depth literature review to proceed in two steps. First, we outline three key environmental problem characteristics: uncertainties, cause–effect mismatches and norm plurality. We then outline six different governance modes capable of producing policies and solutions to tackle challenges arising from the three problem characteristics. Next, through empirical illustrations, we demonstrate the relevance of linking governance modes to these characteristics via the introduction and articulation of the concept of ‘connectivity’, i.e., linking actors, issues, sectors and scale levels towards realizing effective policy solutions for complex environmental problems.
Conference Paper
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The paper suggests an answer as to why policies favoring renewables are implemented in some countries rather than others, with the empirical material gathered from Japan and China. The theoretical framework combines Joseph Schumpeter and Mancur Olson. It emphasizes the importance of structural change to long-term economic growth, but that vested interest structures may easily restrain the growth of new industries, like renewables. Typically, vested interest tied in with old industrial paradigms, seek to preserve their advantage, securing for themselves favorable regulations and institutions. These do however not necessarily fit new and upcoming industries. The paper compares and contrasts the very different experiences of Japan and China. Japan has some of the world's strongest vested interests, but has still been able to foster a successful solar industry (but failed within wind power). Meanwhile, China has found itself in a situation where the rapid increase in demand for energy has enabled very promising efforts within renewables to grow alongside continued increase in the capacity of the non-renewable power sources. The cases both support the theory, suggesting that vested interest structures serve as powerful influences on energy policy. 2
Article
The motivation of the study is to gauge the role of foreign direct investment and globalization on energy diversification in BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) for the period 1985–2019 by utilizing a newly constructed energy diversification index. The study performed several econometrical tools such as both conventional and structural break unit root tests, long-run co-integration between variables investigative by performing the novel combined co-integration test, augmented autoregressive distributed lagged (AARDL) implemented for exploring long-run co-integration and explanatory variables coefficients on energy diversification both in the long-run and short-run and directional causality performed with Fourier TY causality test. Stationary tests established variables are integrated in mixed order, suggesting variables become stationary at a level or after the first difference but neither for the second difference. Combined co-integration and the AARDL test ascertained the long-run association in the empirical equation. Refers to long-run coefficients of FDI and GLO, it revealed a positive and statistically significant linkage with energy diversification. In addition, the causality test reveals directional effects between FDI, GLO and energy diversification index, but the direction differs from among economics. Furthermore, the study performed a robustness test by implementing dynamic OLS, fully modified OLS and CC regression. It is found to the sign of long-run coefficients, especially FDI and GLO, as in the same line of robust tests. On policy grounds, it is undoubtedly established that to ensure energy sustainability through energy source diversifications, the critical role of FDI and globalization have to grab with a serious note in BRICS nations.
Chapter
This chapter examines the past and current state of renewable energy sources in the European Union and Japan, focusing on the policies, programmes, and plans that have driven their growth. The incentives and regulatory tools used to increase the share of renewables in the energy mixes of EU Member States and Japan are also examined in this chapter. Renewable energy targets, support schemes (quota systems, feed-in tariffs, auctions), grid connection, and regulatory and administrative barriers are all addressed. This chapter also considers programmes offered for the development of renewable technologies in Europe and Japan (Altener, Sunshine Project, New Sunshine Program), as well as relevant legislation adopted over the years at the European level (three renewable directives) and laws established in Japan to promote RES. Moreover, the chapter covers such matters as energy prosumers, with active consumers and energy communities, development of offshore wind farms, and policy developments under the 2050 agendas in the EU and Japan.
Book
This book examines a variety of laws and policies governing the European and Japanese electricity sectors. The book evaluates and compares the regulatory frameworks for achieving energy transitions in Japan and the European Union (EU) by answering a number of questions on the essence and range of the regulatory models used by leading global economies which herald carbon neutrality by 2050. The book systematises Japanese and European energy policies and legislation including electricity-related policies, plans, and programmes. To discuss these matters in relation to the European and Japanese 2050 energy transition the book delves into the four pillars of the transition: market reform, reduction of emissions, promotion of renewables, and enhancing energy efficiency. Each chapter shows the timing of the actions undertaken both in Europe and Japan; analyses the character of the conducted actions, including the players and stakeholders of the realised agenda; and presents the technologies involved in the energy transition. These correspond with the policy goals and priorities which propelled the energy transition in the EU and Japan. The author provides answers to questions concerning the regulatory tools that Japan and the EU may use in the future, and the problems which may emerge during the implementation phase. Additionally, the book presents the lessons learned on facilitating the energy transition. The book provides an in-depth review of the EU and Japan’s energy policies and laws in terms of electricity market and climate action, including energy efficiency, renewable energy sources, and the reduction of emissions.
Article
We undertake a comparative analysis of the decision-making steps involved in the nuclear policies in Germany and Japan after the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant Accident in 2011. We consider five factors to understand these vastly different decisions on nuclear policy. We found that the accident occurred during an election period in Germany, resulting in changes in the stances of the ruling party, whereas the political stability of the ruling party was not highly challenged in Japan. Economic and technical factors indicate that the cost of generating electricity as renewable energy in Germany has been reduced enough to replace nuclear energy. An interconnected grid, as a geopolitical factor, helps to import electricity into Germany, the net electricity exporter, in case of a shortage. Given that the economic, technical, and geopolitical factors do not apply to Japan, Japan should restart its nuclear power plants, unless the political stability of the ruling party is jeopardized by the public through the electoral system. From the comparison, we derive general lessons: (1) a social factor affects the political factor when it jeopardizes the ruling party; (2) mature renewable technologies with economic competitiveness in a country can replace nuclear power; (3) the geopolitical situation may affect the nuclear policy, but not as a critical factor.
Chapter
Renewable Energy Sources-Based Electricity (RES-E) plays a key role in sustainable development – of meeting current energy demands, without adding to global warming concerns. However, as of 2017, only 8.5% of the total electricity generation came from RES-E. To boost this contribution, countries rely on strong legislative and policy support/tools. This case focuses on studying the legislative or regulatory frameworks put in place by the top three developed countries, and compares it with three developing countries, each of which are forerunners in RES-E, as of 2017. The comparative study suggests that while no single policy can be credited with the success behind rising RES-E in these countries, two key incentives are most important – namely feed-in-tariffs and renewable purchase obligations. Feed-in-tariffs act as floor price guarantee to the generator and renewable purchase obligations assures the generator of quantum of sale of the RES-E generated. When combined, these two incentives remain the most trusted policy tools even today for countries starting their journey in increasing their RES-E footprints.
Article
This paper aims to present insights about distributed photovoltaic (PV) generation technology diffusion in the household market. A quantitative approach using the Bass model to project distributed PV systems adoption is chosen to base and conduct the analysis. Since distributed PV in Brazil still presents a very small market penetration, historical data is still insufficient to obtain robust estimates. Therefore, parameters from PV markets of other countries and parameters from the solar water heaters (SWH) market in Brazil are used in the analysis. The latter approach is carefully justified. A comparative analysis of distributed PV and SWH market features indicates that SWH diffusion parameters lead to a better representation of innovators behavior for residential PV adoption in Brazil than the parameters borrowed from other countries, which are used by the official projections performed by the Brazilian regulator of the electricity sector. Moreover, we propose a different approach for estimating the final potential market. We discuss the limitations of the official projections, since results indicate that official projections overestimated the diffusion of residential PV market in the early years. Finally, it is suggested that inaccurate signals could be given to stakeholders.
Article
Due to significant cost advantages, wind energy penetrated the energy mix of most large countries much faster than solar PV did until the recent decade. However, Japan has been almost one-sidedly leaning toward the more expensive solar PV. For using solar PV electricity, the Japanese consumers are also paying sizably higher tariffs than those in other countries, especially after the Fukushima nuclear accident in 2011 that led to the sudden suspension of all nuclear power plants. Japan's energy transition towards renewables is accordingly largely single legged, rather than more balanced to take advantage of both wind turbines and solar PV. This article explains the puzzle on why renewable energy development in Japan has created such a wide distance from more economically optimal situations. We focus on the initiation, formation and impacts of the solar lobby that comprises bureaucracies, politicians, solar PV manufacturers, and independent power producers. Policy implications are drawn for Japan and other countries on the importance of controlling political lobby to achieve less costly energy transition.
Article
Since 2006, Thailand has adopted several feed-in tariff (FIT) models. Thailand's FIT has decreased continuously from 11.50 baht/kW h in 2006 to 4.16 baht/kW h in 2016 as a result of the rapid global decline in the price of photovoltaic (PV) systems. Three FIT policies were incorporated in models (i.e., premium, fixed-price, and front-end loaded FIT), to stimulate the installation of PV systems. This study evaluated the economics of utility-scale 1 MW solar PV systems in Thailand, with support from the FIT policy. The net present value was calculated as 28.75–38.72 × 10⁶ baht, with an internal rate of return of 11.83%–15.32%, a payback period of 7.49–10.06 years, and a benefit–cost ratio of 1.53–2.15. These data indicate that Thailand's FIT policy already successfully operates as a solar PV support mechanism. The FIT models from countries where PV systems have been successfully installed (China, Japan, and Germany) were also studied, to help policy-makers devise a suitable FIT scheme for Thailand. Thailand's FIT model should implement the FIT policy in three main phases for new investors. In the first phase, the installed PV capacity is not high, and high fixed FIT rates will be set to attract investors. In the second phase, the FIT will be adjusted and the degression rate will reduce the profitability of the project. In the final phase, the installed PV capacity will reach the target and the FIT will be changed via an auction to allow investors to compete for the tender.
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Rather than viewing the nuclear crisis through these more obvious institutional connections between the public and private sectors (which can be found in many industrialized nations), observers should, I believe, pay more attention to the institutions created by the central government to increase public acceptance of nuclear power and decrease negative reactions. Japanese decision makers have systematically sought to manipulate opinion on nuclear power since the late 1960s.
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In 1998, Japan initiated a unique program—the Top Runner Approach—to improve energy efficiency of end-use products and to develop "the world's best energy-efficient products." By 2009, the program had achieved mandatory energy efficiency standards for 21 products. It is now considered as one of the major pillars of Japanese climate policy. This paper examines 12 years' experience of the program. It first overviews the structure of the Top Runner Approach and illustrating its impacts, followed by a discussion on the various issues associated with the Approach and concluding with some implications.
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On December 10, 2010, near the close of the COP 16 meeting in Cancun, Mexico, the international press reported that 20 national leaders, including those of the UK and Mexico, were lined up to call Japanese Prime Minister Kan Naoto. They sought to persuade Kan and his government not to abandon the 2008 to 2012 Kyoto Protocol approach to securing carbon reductions via explicit and compulsory targets. Their concern was well grounded. Arima Jun, the Deputy Director General for Environmental Affairs at Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, shocked the Cancun conference on December 2 with his declaration that "Japan will not inscribe its target under the Kyoto Protocol on any conditions or under any circumstances."Arima's blunt bureaucratese meant that Japan would not agree to an extension of the Protocol. Observers were so taken aback by the announcement that they assumed it must be a negotiating ploy. Surely Japan, a shrinking presence on the international stage and desperate to pump up its soft power, would not junk a treaty that earned the country valuable "global brand recognition" with each iteration of "Kyoto." Yet Arima's announcement was confirmed the next day by a decision of the Japanese cabinet.In the event, the Cancun conference decided to table decisions on whether to extend the Kyoto process to the December 2011 COP meeting in Durban, South Africa. But the Japanese Government's determination to abandon Kyoto, the world's only carbon-reduction agreement, remains of deep concern. It is also a serious transgression of Japan's commitment, via the 2007 Bali Roadmap, to a two-track process of keeping Kyoto while also bringing in the US, China and other countries not yet committed to carbon cuts. Abandoning Kyoto was an unimaginable position for Kan's Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ) Government to take barely more than a year after the country's "regime change" election of August 30, 2009. In the election campaign and after taking office, the DPJ had stressed that energy and environmental targets were key elements of green economic growth.
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The relationship between technological changeand environmental policy has receivedincreasing attention from scholars and policymakers alike over the past ten years. This ispartly because the environmental impacts ofsocial activity are significantly affected bytechnological change, and partly becauseenvironmental policy interventions themselvescreate new constraints and incentives thataffect the process of technologicaldevelopments. Our central purpose in thisarticle is to provide environmental economistswith a useful guide to research ontechnological change and the analytical toolsthat can be used to explore further theinteraction between technology and theenvironment. In Part 1 of the article, weprovide an overview of analytical frameworksfor investigating the economics oftechnological change, highlighting key issuesfor the researcher. In Part 2, we turn ourattention to theoretical analysis of theeffects of environmental policy ontechnological change, and in Part 3, we focuson issues related to the empirical analysis oftechnology innovation and diffusion. Finally,we conclude in Part 4 with some additionalsuggestions for research. Copyright Kluwer Academic Publishers 2002
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To satisfy its demand for energy, Japan continues to rely heavily on oil imported from the Middle East. Increasing geopolitical uncertainty in the region has underscored the urgent need for new initiatives in national energy security policy. Projecting a continuing steep rise in oil consumption by the rapidly industrializing nations of Asia (notably China and India), Tsutomu Toichi, managing director of the Institute of Energy Economics in Tokyo, proposes various alternative sources of energy for Japan and its neighbors. Sounding a cautiously optimistic note, Toichi argues that increasing levels of cooperation between the nations of East Asia could serve as a basis for joint development projects that might allow Japan to loosen the shackles of dependence on Middle Eastern oil, but cautions that Japan must first place greater emphasis on building good relationships with neighboring countries, and must also more closely align its energy, security, and environmental policies.
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The post-World War II world has seen the transformation of the international system from a configuration with several rival great powers into one with two superpowers and a set of lesser but still substantial powers—second-tier states with democratic politics and mixed economies. One of the recurrent concerns of the latter has been to secure supplies of natural resources. We argue that postwar conditions point to eight elements of prudent resource policy for middle-level powers. Such states should: (i) avoid military means; (2) choose trade partners whose political interests overlap with their own and who enjoy political stability; (3) seek to create in supplier and transit countries a structure of economic interests that will make supply agreements self-enforcing; (4) diversify with respect to commodity dependence, supplier share, and transit bottlenecks; (5) tailor stockpiles to the urgency of demand; (6) exploit technology to reduce dependence and enhance bargaining advantages; (7) encourage the private sector and public enterprises to become intermediaries in the international resource trade; and (8) pursue strategic interdependence among consumer nations by creating multilateral stakes in the maintenance of normal commerce in resources.
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The purpose of the study is to analyze feasibility and a roadmap of a low-carbon society in Japan by 2050, while satisfying required demands. Future technology roadmaps, CO2 emission pathways and energy mix transitions leading Japan are calculated using the AIM/Backcasting Model based on backcasting methodology with taking into consideration that one of the keys for technological market penetration is the preferences of consumers. Under the CO2 emission target of 80% reduction as compared to 1990 level by 2050, it is found from the results that the target is feasible in Japan by implementing actions toward low-carbon society as early as possible. From the perspective of minimizing the total costs, it would be best to target a reduction rate of 16–20% in 2020, 31–35% in 2030 and 53–56% in 2040 within the range of Scenarios A and B. During this process, major investment will be needed in the early stage of the analytical periods, especially in the residential, commercial and transport sectors. However, viewed in the long term, this can be recovered by reduction in energy consumption. Moreover, the analysis suggests that returns that balance the total investment may be possible.
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How to foster technical change is a highly relevant and intricate question in the arena of policymaking. Various studies have shown that technology-push and demand-pull policies induce innovation. However, there is a lack of work that distinguishes between the loci of policy support when assessing the policy–innovation relationship. We address this gap by shedding light on the question how the innovation effects of domestic and foreign demand-pull and technology-push policies differ. Using solar photovoltaic modules as a research case we conduct a panel analysis on 15 OECD countries over the period 1978 through 2005 with patent data. Three key findings emerged: First, our analyses find no evidence that domestic technology-push policies foster innovative output outside of national borders. Second, both domestic and foreign demand-pull policies trigger innovative output in a country. Third, we detect no indication that market growth induced by domestic demand-pull policies leads to more national innovative output than market growth induced by foreign demand-pull policies. Consequently, demand-pull policies create significant country-level innovation spillovers, which could disincentivize national policymakers to engage in domestic market creation. Based on these findings we discuss the need to establish supranational demand-pull policy schemes in order to address the spillover issue.
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We briefly consider the trend towards relying on the tools, systems and resources of national energy policy to meet international climate change mitigation goals. Within this paradigm, the myriad energy-related aspects of climate change policy should be explicitly addressed as a sub-set of energy policy rather than the reverse, with the positive goal of building a low-carbon economy rather than the negative task of reducing emissions. While international signals on global targets for climate change mitigation are valuable, they will only be realised if “grounded” into specific policy sectors that address core objectives of society (like security of energy service delivery). Various facets of energy policy from the geo-politics of the global trade in fossil fuels, to development of renewable energy technologies, to national power system planning and operation lend themselves to this approach. It remains the case that modifying the goals of energy policy to encompass delivery of climate goals will require a change in focus of energy decision-makers and institutions.
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In June 2010, the Japanese cabinet adopted a new Basic Energy Plan (BEP). This was the third such plan that the government has approved since the passage of the Basic Act on Energy Policy in 2002, and it represents the most significant statement of Japanese energy policy in more than four years, since the publication of the New National Energy Strategy (NNES) in 2006. Perhaps more than its predecessors, moreover, the new plan establishes a number of ambitious targets as well as more detailed measures for achieving those targets. Among the targets are a doubling of Japan's "energy independence ratio," a doubling of the percentage of electricity generated by renewable sources and nuclear power, and a 30 percent reduction in energy-related CO2 emissions, all by 2030. This paper explains the origins of the 2010 BEP and why it was adopted. It then describes the content of the plan and how it differs from the NNES. A third section analyzes the appropriateness of the new goals and targets contained in the BEP and their feasibility, finding that achievement of many of the targets was likely to be quite challenging even before the March 2011 earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear crisis.
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The German Renewable Energy Act (EEG) has been very successful in promoting the deployment of renewable electricity technologies in Germany. The increasing share of EEG power in the generation portfolio, increasing amounts of fluctuating power generation, and the growing European integration of power markets governed by competition calls for a re-design of the EEG. In particular, a more efficient system integration and commercial integration of the EEG power is needed to, e.g. better matching feed-in to demand and avoiding stress on electricity grids. This article describes three different options to improve the EEG by providing appropriate incentives and more flexibility to the promotion mechanism and the quantitative compensation scheme without jeopardising the fast deployment of renewable energy technologies. In the "Retailer Model", it becomes the responsibility of the end-use retailers to adapt the EEG power to the actual demand of their respective customers. The "Market Mediator Model" establishes an independent market mediator responsible to market the renewable electricity. This model is the primary choice when new market entrants are regarded as crucial for the better integration of renewable energy and enhanced competition. The "Optional Bonus Model" relies more on functioning markets since power plant operators can alternatively choose to market the generated electricity themselves with a premium on top of the market price instead of a fixed price.
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The allure of an environmentally benign, abundant, and cost-effective energy source has led an increasing number of industrialized countries to back public financing of renewable energies. Germany’s experience with renewable energy promotion is often cited as a model to be replicated elsewhere, being based on a combination of far-reaching energy and environmental laws that stretch back nearly two decades. This paper critically reviews the centerpiece of this effort, the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG), focusing on its costs and the associated implications for job creation and climate protection. We argue that German renewable energy policy, and in particular the adopted feed-in tariff scheme, has failed to harness the market incentives needed to ensure a viable and cost-effective introduction of renewable energies into the country’s energy portfolio. To the contrary, the government’s support mechanisms have in many respects subverted these incentives, resulting in massive expenditures that show little long-term promise for stimulating the economy, protecting the environment, or increasing energy security.
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In light of the global environmental consequences of CO2 emissions resulting from energy use, systems options for the rational use of energy, particularly of energy efficiency improvement and renewable energy technology, have become crucial. Despite its leading efforts in developing extensive renewable energy, Japan has not necessarily achieved comparative advantage in this field owing to inherent resource constraints for renewable energy. One of the exceptions is photovoltaic power generation (PV).PV is considered to be a “footloose” renewable energy which is expected to overcome Japan's own geographical disadvantages as a technology breakthrough. MITI (Japan's Ministry of International Trade and Industry) initiated PV development under its Sunshine Project (R&D Program on New Energy) aiming at maximizing these advantages by: (1) encouraging the broad involvement of cross-sectoral industry, (2) stimulating inter-technology stimulation and cross-sectoral technology spillover, and (3) inducing vigorous industry investment in PV R&D, leading to an increase in industry's PV technology knowledge stock. An increase in this technology knowledge stock contributed to a dramatic increase in solar cell production. These increases led to a dramatic decrease in solar cell production price, and this decrease induced a further increase in solar cell production. An increase in solar cell production induced further PV R&D, thus creating a “virtuous cycle” between R&D, market growth and price reduction.This paper, on the basis of an empirical analysis of Japan's PV development, demonstrates the industrial dynamism of this “virtuous cycle” as a policy initiative.
Article
The purpose of this paper is to analyze the socio-economic dynamics that are brought about by renewable energy technologies. We call this dynamic “Social Innovation” as it changes the rules of risk–benefit distribution and the roles of social actors. For this purpose, we take up a typical case in Japan, community wind power in which the initial cost is funded by the investment of citizens. Through this case study, we examine how the citizens’ initiative can affect the social acceptance of renewable energy as well as social change. Based on interviews with those involved in these projects, we analyze the interests of the various actors involved in community wind power projects in a framework of “actor network theory”, which enables us to understand the detail of each actor's position. This study also involved a quantitative survey of investors. The case study clarified that there was a remarkable difference in the interests of the main actors in the community wind power projects, the networks are complex and actors share various interests such as economic interests and a sense of social commitment, participation and contribution. These incentives are also clarified in quantitative data. However, the variety of incentives differs in each project.
Article
Rising expectations about future demand for new technologies increase the incentives for investments in innovation by enlarging payoffs to successful innovations. How well does this notion of “demand-pull” apply to non-incremental technological change when demand is largely attributable to actions by governments? In this case, inventors of the most important inventions did not respond positively to strong demand-pull policies; filing of highly cited patents declined precipitously just as demand for wind power created a multi-billion dollar market. Three explanations for this apparent inconsistency with the demand-pull hypothesis played a role: (1) the rapid convergence on a single dominant design limited the market opportunity for non-incremental technical improvements; (2) even though the policies implemented were stringent enough to stimulate demand, uncertainty in their longevity dampened the incentives for inventions that were likely to take several years to pay off; and (3) alternative explanations, such as declining R&D funding and weakening presidential engagement on energy, appear to have been important.
Article
Globally successful innovations have commonly been preferred first in one country or region before being adopted internationally. Countries that first adopt an internally successful innovation can be described as lead markets. This paper presents the lead market concept of developing global innovations. The lead role of a market is discussed first theoretically and then by use of a system of five country-specific factors: demand advantages, price advantages, export advantages, transfer advantages and market structure advantages. The applicability of this system of lead market factors is then evaluated in a detailed case study of the cellular mobile telephone industry. It is finally suggested that companies can harness lead markets for the development of global innovations. By developing and refining innovations in close interaction with the local environment of a lead market, a company can focus on a narrow range of preferences and feedback, lowering the risk of being locked into idiosyncratic environments, and generate true global innovations. A method for identifying potential lead markets is briefly discussed.
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Climate goals in doubt as fossil fuels come to the fore in fight to meet electricity demand.
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Accepting a fixed trade-off between environmental regulation and competitiveness unnecessarily raises costs and slows down environmental progress. Studies finding high environmental compliance costs have traditionally focused on static cost impacts, ignoring any offsetting productivity benefits from innovation. They typically overestimated compliance costs, neglected innovation offsets, and disregarded the affected industry's initial competitiveness. Rather than simply adding to cost, properly crafted environmental standards can trigger innovation offsets, allowing companies to improve their resource productivity. Shifting the debate from pollution control to pollution prevention was a step forward. It is now necessary to make the next step and focus on resource productivity. Copyright 1995 by American Economic Association.
Solarsubventionenübersteigen 100 Milliarden-Euro-Schwelle
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