Energy Conservation Technologies and Expectation in Japan

摘要

Energy conservation technologies are primary measures against the global environmental issues. Since 'Oil Shock' in the middle of 1970s, Japanese industries have endeavored to increase energy efficiency that has resulted in a decrease in the production cost. This article describes the transition of energy consumption in Japan, outline of the energy conservation laws, and energy conservation technology developments for the industrial sector, for the commercial/residential sector, and the transportation sector. Five development themes on energy conservation of the national technological strategies are designated to be promoted by the year 2030. As one of the designated topics in the commercial sector, some development results of a national project on HEMS (Home Energy Management System) are described. Detail technologies in major fields are shown in the following papers.