Solar Energy

Solar Energy

Japan Stokes Eco Industry

Japan has been a world leader in developing new environmental technologies, from hybrid cars to photovoltaic power generation, and the government is now looking at ways to stimulate its eco markets even further. The Japanese Economy, Trade and Industry Ministry plans to expand the nation's environment-focused business sector to about 83 trillion yen (about $780 billion) in 2015, from 59 trillion yen in 2005, according to recent reports.

The Japanese government will come up with policies to promote environmentally friendly technologies and businesses, which are expected to grow by 54 percent to 49 trillion yen by 2015 from the 2005 level. The Japanese government plans to stoke demand for solar power and other technologies that cut greenhouse gas emissions by encouraging investment in environment-focused businesses, and better educating consumers on significant eco issues. The ministry believes the number of jobs in environment-focused businesses will increase 45 percent over the period to 2.6 million.

A a new analysis by the Cambridge Energy Research Associates (CERA) concurs with Japan’s estimates, and predicts that worldwide clean energy investment could surpass US$7 trillion by 2030. According to CERA’s report, “Crossing the Divide: The Future of Clean Energy,” the public concern over climate change will have a major impact on public policy and lead to more private investment in clean energy technologies. The report says that renewable power technologies will see significant growth, with wind making the biggest gains, followed by solar and biomass power.