Mapping the Energy Future

Hosted by The Institute of Energy Economics, Japan

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Jun 2026

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About the show

This podcast aims not only to identify the global challenges including energy security, energy affordability, and climate change but also to share with listeners our pragmatic solutions to those. About IEEJ The Institute of Energy Economics, Japan (IEEJ) is a private think tank that covers energy problems, climate issues, and geopolitical agendas across the world. Visit us at https://eneken.ieej.or.jp/en/ for more information.

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49 recent

June 10, 2026Episode 4914 min

“Asian Energy Crisis” requires more attention and unique responses

This episode is talking about “Asian Energy Crisis” requires more attention and unique responses. While the world focuses on a global crisis, Developing Asia is being hit much harder than Emerging Asia. Mr. Terazawa shares his thoughts on why financial aid alone isn't enough and why a physical supply of energy is essential. He also addresses the critical need for stronger regional energy security and AZEC's role as a foundation for this transition.

April 21, 2026Episode 4816 min

Japan’s exposure and responses to the Iran Conflict

This episode is talking about “Japan’s exposure and responses to the Iran Conflict”. While the prospect of the Iran conflict is hard to predict, Mr. Terazawa will share with the listeners the exposure and responses of Japan to the conflict.

March 27, 2026Episode 4715 min

The start of ETS in Japan

This episode is talking about “The start of ETS in Japan”. Japan’s new ETS, launching in April and covering 60% of national emissions, introduces a growth‑oriented design with realistic allowance allocation and free credits through FY 2033. With early energy‑transition support, a price band to spur investment, and limited carbon‑credit offsets, the system also creates new opportunities for global low‑carbon solution providers.

February 18, 2026Episode 4610 min

PM Takaichi’s Triumph

This episode is talking about “PM Takaichi’s Triumph”. PM Sanae Takaichi won the Lower House election, largely due to her strong popularity and the opposition parties’ weaknesses. Her victory enables her to pass legislation without relying on opposition support. While her administration is expected to maintain the overall direction of existing energy and climate policies, the mega‑solar sector may face notable impacts.

February 2, 2026Episode 4518 min

Significant Progress in Nuclear Power in Japan

This episode is talking about “Significant Progress in Nuclear Power in Japan”. Local governors have approved restarting KK Unit 6 and Tomari Unit 3, signaling growing momentum for nuclear power in Japan. While this marks a major step, challenges remain for further restarts and reactor replacements.

January 9, 2026Episode 4413 min

Various Pathways for Decarbonizing Road Transport in the Global South

This episode is talking about “Various Pathways for Decarbonizing Road Transport in the Global South”. BEVs are not the only solution for the Global South. In Indonesia, their life-cycle CO₂ emissions are currently the highest among powertrains and may remain so, while deployment costs must also be considered. Brazil benefits most from combining biofuels with hybrids, and biogas is a practical option for India. In some regions, climate conditions make BEVs less suitable, so road transport strategies should reflect local circumstances.

December 5, 2025Episode 4311 min

The integration costs of variable renewable energies must be considered

This episode is talking about “The integration costs of variable renewable energies must be considered”. LCOE alone doesn’t reflect the true cost of power. When integration costs of variable renewables are included, solar becomes expensive at high penetration levels. In Japan and ASEAN, total costs rise sharply beyond 34–50% VRE. A cost-effective energy mix must consider these integration costs.

November 19, 2025Episode 4217 min

Energy Efficiency of AI & Energy Efficiency by AI

This episode is talking about “Energy Efficiency of AI & Energy Efficiency by AI”. How AI is driving up energy demand—especially in data centers—and how improving its efficiency could help reduce global energy use. With the right strategies, AI could boost energy efficiency across industries by 2035, but it will require training, incentives, and better data practices.

October 21, 2025Episode 4116 min

Global Energy Outlook: Strong Demand Driven by India and ASEAN

This episode is talking about “Global Energy Outlook: Strong Demand Driven by India and ASEAN”. IEEJ’s Global Energy Outlook outlines rising energy demand—especially in India and ASEAN—alongside strong global gas use and ongoing coal expansion. While deep CO₂ cuts by 2050 are possible with technology, the 1.5°C goal is unlikely. Achieving 2°C remains feasible with more effort, and climate adaptation is increasingly vital.

September 8, 2025Episode 4017 min

Japan’s International Initiatives in the Energy Sector

This episode is talking about “Japan’s International Initiatives in the Energy Sector”. While Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has been struggling with political difficulties following the defeat in the Upper House election in July, leading to his announcement on September 7 to resign from the Presidency of LDP, the ruling party, he has also been leading Japan in a series of international energy initiatives.