Japan faces energy supply crisis
The import-dependent nation is increasingly reliant on expensive spot LNG cargoes
The global energy supply crunch is exposing Japan’s vulnerability, as surging oil and gas prices have led to spiking electricity rates, prompting calls from the government for residents to conserve power. Japanese electricity prices are already trading at a record high for this time of the year, with day-ahead rates on the Japan Electric Power Exchange up by more than elevenfold from a year ago. The country issued a power warning for the first time in March after supply neared critical levels in Tokyo following an earthquake, leading to a higher burden on power retailers and end-users. At the end of June, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (Meti) extended an advisory calling for hou

Also in this section
17 July 2025
US downstream sector in key state feels the pain of high costs, an environmental squeeze and the effects of broader market trends
16 July 2025
Crude quality issues are an often understated risk to energy security, highlighted by problems at a key US refinery
15 July 2025
Government consultations on the windfall tax and the exploration licence ban are positive steps, but it is unclear how long it will take for them to yield tangible outcomes
15 July 2025
A brutally honest picture about the potential role of oil and gas in 2050 should prompt policymakers to not only reflect but also change course to meet vital energy needs