Fourth energy basic plan of Japan. Approved by cabinet in April 2014

The fourth Energy Basic Plan prepared mainly by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) is the first plan after Fukushima Nuclear Accident. In this plan, the challenges and the directions of energy policy are discussed considering the mid- and long-term energy demand structure, especially 2018-2020 as the period of intensive reform. However, the energy mix indicates the composition of electrical sources and so on is not included due to the uncertainty about the prospect in the restart of nuclear power plant and the introduction of renewable energy sources. This article discusses the issues in the energy demand structure in Japan indicated in this plan, the principles in energy policy, as well as the perspectives for reform. These are summarized in three categories of (1) primary energy sources, (2) secondary energy supply, and (3) cross-sectional main subjects, particularly focusing on the viewpoints described in the chapter 2 and later. (S.K.)