What is Japan's energy storage policy?

As policy, technology, and decarbonization goals converge, Japan is positioning energy storage as a critical link between its climate targets and energy reliability. Japan’s energy storage policy is anchored by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), which outlined its ambitions in the 6th Strategic Energy Plan, adopted in 2021.

Does Japan's energy storage rollout face structural headwinds?

Despite strong policy signals, Japan’s energy storage rollout faces deep structural headwinds. The nation’s split-grid architecture—50 Hz in the east and 60 Hz in the west—limits electricity transfer and complicates nationwide deployment.

Why are Japanese companies investing in battery energy storage systems?

Sign up here. That is creating surging interest in battery energy storage systems (BESS) to smooth mismatches in supply and demand. Since December 2023, companies have announced investments of at least $2.6 billion in Japanese battery storage projects, according to calculations by Reuters.

How is Japan's energy storage landscape changing?

Japan’s energy storage landscape is shifting, pushed by household demand, corporate ESG mandates, and domestic battery manufacturing. The residential lithium-ion market, projected to grow at a CAGR of 33.9% through 2030, remains one of the fastest-expanding segments.

How much battery power does Japan have?

As of March, Japan had 0.23 GW of grid-connected BESS, according to METI. By comparison, China has 75 GW and the U.S. has installed nearly 26 GW of battery storage capacity, according to the Energy Institute.

How big is Japan's battery storage capacity?

Rystad forecasts Japan's battery storage capacity could reach about 4 GW based on projects under construction, planned and awarded, which would require $6 billion in investment.