Mapping the Energy Future

Hosted by The Institute of Energy Economics, Japan

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Oct 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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53 recent

October 7, 2026Episode 5312 min

Pragmatic Long-term Energy Pathways

This episode is talking about “Pragmatic Long-term Energy Pathways”. IEEJ has participated in the production of a report by S&P Global, “Multidimensional Global Energy Pathways.” Mr. Terazawa believes the report presents a realistic, credible outlook for the future of energy, based on realities rather than driven by predetermined outcomes, which can provide an actionable basis for decisions by policymakers and investors. He will introduce the essence of the report.

September 25, 2026Episode 5215 min

The full cost of deploying variable renewable energy must be incorporated

This episode is talking about “The full cost of deploying variable renewable energy must be incorporated”. Mr. Terazawa will explain why integration costs need to be included when assessing the full cost of variable renewable energy (VRE), including backup, storage, curtailment, and grid expansion costs. He will also discuss the relationship between VRE penetration and power system costs in Japan, including the cost-optimal VRE share for 2050 and the role of demand response, batteries, nuclear power, and thermal power as backup.

August 19, 2026Episode 5115 min

Update: Impact of Iran Crisis and Responses by Japan

This episode is talking about “Update: Impact of Iran Crisis and Responses by Japan”. Nearly six months have passed since the attack on Iran started. While the outlook for the Iran crisis is still unclear, Mr. Terazawa will provide an update on the impact of the crisis on Japan and the responses by Japan to enhance its energy security.

July 17, 2026Episode 5014 min

Energy Security Enhancement could be affected by Australia’s LNG Policy

This episode is talking about “Energy Security Enhancement could be affected by Australia’s LNG Policy”. Drawing lessons from the Iran crisis, the discussion explores why strengthening energy security is a growing priority for Asia. It examines Australia's role as a key LNG supplier, the potential impact of its proposed domestic gas reservation policy on future LNG investment, and why investment-friendly policies could deliver long-term benefits for both Asia's energy security and Australia's economy.

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.