Renewable Energy and Defense Power in Japan

Japan’s challenge will be how quickly it can shift its energy supply to renewable energy sources. To increase energy self-sufficiency and defense power, Japan should promote policies that encourage renewable energy use. However, under the current legal system, local governments are not involved in the legal review process for establishing nuclear power plants. Through agreements, local consent is required to restart a plant.

However, this is merely a contract, and permission is granted even if the agreement is violated, as long as the plant passes a safety review. The central government is trying to facilitate communication between local governments and operators, but it is not enough. Legally requiring the establishment and funding of councils would stimulate local discussion and support local actors who file civil or administrative lawsuits if the power company’s explanation is insufficient. This abstract has been taken from the author's conclusion.