Tackling Power Outages in Japan: The Earthquake Compels a Swift Transformation of the Power Supply

Abstract

This article discusses the directions for energy systems on the basis of the urgent proposal to counter the energy crisis in east Japan, published from the Society of Chemical Engineers, Japan. We first illustrate the situation Japan faces, highlighting the urgency and seriousness of the consequences of power outage in industry and daily life. Next, we elaborate on need of policy support to trigger collective actions to temporarily practice countermeasures that would not necessarily save resources or that could disrupt society's established routines. In this way Japan can choose technologies without regret based on society-wide discussions on the future energy supply. Finally, we sound the alarm about drawbacks induced by shortsighted decisions e.g. avoiding power outage depending on introduction of less-efficient gas turbines. Japan should commence a transition of its energy systems rather than compromising resource efficiency and grid robustness over the next decades.