Global energy markets are undergoing dramatic change, with growing demand from emerging economies, increasing awareness of environmental considerations, and advances in new technologies. The commercialization of shale gas is already reshaping the energy commodities market, while new technologies in LNG and the developments in the commercialization of methane hydrate production are driving investment and infrastructure into new large-scale projects.

The sector is of even greater importance to Japan, which turned off all of its nuclear power plants (previously Japan’s leading energy source) in response to the Fukushima accident of March 2011. The current administration is still redefining the “best mix” of energy sources, with the share of nuclear power in Japan’s energy mix poised to fall despite plans to restart some nuclear reactors. These developments have also brought renewed attention to complementary technologies, including renewable energy and the optimization of energy consumption. The government is continuing to pursue a bold program of power sector deregulation and reform, aimed at introducing greater competition and efficiency among utilities.

GR Japan has extensive experience of supporting both traditional and new players in Japan’s energy markets, including clients involved in refining, nuclear power (including decommissioning), LNG, solar, wind and biomass. We have worked on many projects to help clients navigate the changing energy landscape, including a successful advocacy campaign on the introduction of Japan’s “feed-in tariff” system. We are currently directly involved in the formulation of policy recommendations for new legislation on energy efficiency. We have also worked on many government outreach programs among Diet members.  The GR Japan team’s experts on the energy sector combine direct experience of policy-making and regulation with impeccable political, business and academic credentials.