The energy sector in Japan has a rather atypical history because it has one of the two biggest nuclear disasters of the decade, the Fukushima nuclear accident occurring in 2011 (Chernobyl (1986) being the second). This accident of course had consequences on a national scale and we will see what they are. We therefore suggest that during this article you learn a little about economics, history and geography without forgetting some practical knowledge about power outlets in Japan to be sure of being able to recharge your digital devices if you have planning to go there!
The Fukushima nuclear accident (March 11, 2011).
March 11, 2011, tragedy occurs. Following a magnitude 9 earthquake (the largest ever recorded in Japan to date) on the east coast 130 km off the city of Sendai, a tsunami was generated and knocked out the cooling service of the Fukushima nuclear power plant. This then resulted in the melting of the cores of reactors number 1, 2 and 3 as well as the overheating of the spent fuel pool of reactor 4.
The consequences of the tragedy.
On a human level, around 2,000 Japanese died that day following the disaster. Fortunately, no deaths will subsequently occur as a result of radioactive waste released into nature.
In terms of energy and the economy, this disaster had repercussions on a global scale and inevitably, even more serious on a national scale. A drop in the energy self-sufficiency rate of more than 20% was noted in Japan, which is simply enormous for a country like that of the Rising Sun. As Japan is already very dependent on fossil energy imports from the rest of the world, it will now be even more so and will have to make do (source: Ministry of the Economy, Finance and Recovery ) .
Energy in 2021 and beyond in Japan.
Today, Japan wishes to make up for its lack of energy self-sufficiency and reduce its imports (particularly fossil fuels such as coal or oil) from abroad to be able, as much as possible, to meet its needs on its own. energy of his country.
This is why Japan is relying heavily on renewable energies and is doing everything possible to lower electricity costs, which are still very high today compared to the world average.
Power outlets in Japan and their differences from the rest of the world.
image source: Living in Tokyo
After having taken a tour of the Fukushima incident from the origin of the disaster to its consequences and the measures put in place by the government to resolve the situation, we would like to finish this short article on power outlets which are in Japan.
Just like England, Japan does not have the power outlets in its homes that we know in France and you will therefore need to bring a special adapter to recharge your digital devices.
Although we are not a specialized electrician in Paris , we can tell you that in Japan the electrical currents are 100V, which is indeed different from what we have in Europe (230V) and from that which is in North America (120V). You will easily find them at main airports such as Narita for example for the modest sum of €3.00 or €4.00 generally.