Is the German approach of a non-nuclear low carbon transition a model for other countries to follow?

Assignment Brief

The Japanese Case:

• Explore Japan`s energy and emissions-related choices up to 2050 using the Japan 2050 Low Carbon Navigator (Low Carbon Navigator), energy and emissions scenario simulation tool based on the 2050 Pathways Calculator model.
• Discover Japan`s the basic energy policy of “3E + S” using the Japan 2050 Low Carbon Navigator.

Sample Answer

Germany and Japan are both advanced industrial countries that face similar challenges in creating sustainable and low-carbon energy systems. However, their strategies differ, especially in their approach to nuclear energy. Germany has chosen a clear path of phasing out nuclear power while focusing on renewables. Japan, on the other hand, is still exploring its energy future using tools like the Japan 2050 Low Carbon Navigator, balancing energy security, economic efficiency, environmental protection, and safety, the "3E + S" principles.

Germany’s Non-Nuclear Low Carbon Transition

Germany has taken a firm stance against nuclear energy, especially after the Fukushima disaster in 2011. The country launched its Energiewende (energy transition) policy, which promotes:

• Phasing out nuclear power by 2022 (already completed).

• Investing heavily in renewable energy sources like wind and solar.

• Improving energy efficiency in industries, transport, and homes.

• Cutting carbon emissions to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045.

This approach is seen as bold and environmentally responsible. It has made Germany a leader in renewable energy. However, there have been challenges such as:

• Increased energy prices for consumers.

• Dependence on coal and gas, especially after the nuclear phase-out.

• Grid stability issues due to inconsistent supply from renewables.

Japan’s Energy Choices and the "3E + S" Framework

Japan’s energy strategy is guided by four goals:

• Energy security – Ensuring stable supply.

• Economic efficiency – Keeping costs manageable.

• Environmental protection – Reducing emissions.

• Safety – Especially post-Fukushima.

Using the Japan 2050 Low Carbon Navigator, Japan can explore different energy scenarios up to 2050. The tool shows how choices about renewable energy, nuclear power, fossil fuels, and efficiency will impact emissions and supply.

Japan has a more cautious approach to removing nuclear energy from its energy mix. Currently:

• Nuclear remains part of the long-term energy plan, though its share is reduced.

• Renewables like solar and offshore wind are expanding, but slowly.

• Japan still relies on fossil fuels, especially LNG (liquefied natural gas), which adds to carbon emissions.

Can Japan Follow the German Model?

Germany`s model is ambitious, but Japan faces different challenges:

• Japan has fewer domestic energy resources, so it depends more on imports.

• Its geography is more prone to natural disasters, making nuclear safety a bigger issue.

• Energy demand is high, and renewables alone may not yet be enough.

The Japan 2050 Low Carbon Navigator shows that Japan can reach a low-carbon future, but doing so without nuclear would require:

• Massive investment in renewables and smart grids.

• Improved energy storage technologies.

• Changing public behaviour and industrial energy use.

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