Fumio Shimpo - Böcker

This book offers a distinctive and comprehensive view of the energy transition of Japan, with a particular focus on the rise of smart cities.Drawing on real examples from Japan’s journey towards carbon neutrality, this volume examines a variety of topics ranging from laws and policies to technological and managerial solutions, discussing them in the context of Japan’s energy transition. Among the issues covered by the book are climate action planning, sustainable waste management, energy poverty, decarbonisation, e-methane, transport policies, and smart grids. The book also explores the regulatory tools that either support or hinder the development of smart cities in Japan, and how Japan can leverage its national solutions globally. In this way, this book serves as a guide for global climate action and energy transitions around the world.Focusing on both stories of success and lessons learned, this book will be a valuable resource for students and scholars of energy transitions, climate action, smart cities, as well as Asian and Japanese studies more broadly.

This book offers a complex and problem-based analysis of the past, present, and future of smart cities in Japan’s energy transition.With 92% of Japanese living in urban areas and a goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, Japan’s energy future will depend largely on how its cities can become smarter, greener, and more resilient. To reach these ambitions, a collective effort is required, with actions coming from Tokyo to Kumamoto, from Yokohama to Sapporo, and throughout dozens of smaller and bigger Japanese urban structures. This book addresses the key issues that have emerged or may emerge in various Japanese cities that are pursuing smart energy initiatives. The authors examine several issues, including international cooperation, heating decarbonisation, foreign direct investments, city planning, housing policies, and technology-related risks in the context of Japan’s energy transition.Drawing on case studies from different regions of Japan and sectors of Japanese economy significant for reaching carbon neutrality, this book will be a valuable resource for all interested in energy transition, climate action, and smart cities, where Japan and Japanese smart cities serve as excellent benchmarks.