Japan Fast-Tracks Energy Transformation with Hydrogen, Nuclear, and Renewables for 2050 Carbon Neutrality
What
Japan is accelerating its energy transformation with a strong focus on advanced energy systems, next-generation nuclear technologies, and hydrogen. The 7th Strategic Energy Plan, finalised in February 2025, reinforces Japan’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and introduces renewed targets toward 2040. The strategy is guided by the principles of safety, energy security, economic efficiency, and environmental sustainability, the so-called 3+3E framework.
To deliver on these ambitions, Japan is investing heavily in hydrogen infrastructure, the decarbonisation of thermal power through hydrogen and ammonia, and the development of next-generation nuclear reactors. At the same time, renewable energy is expected to play a significantly expanded role in the energy mix, with targets of 40–50% renewables and around 20% nuclear power by 2040. As a country with limited domestic fossil resources, international cooperation will be essential for Japan to achieve both its decarbonisation objectives and continued economic growth.
Japanese policymakers and companies are therefore actively seeking advanced technologies and solutions to support this transformation. For Swedish companies, this creates access to a stable and long-term market characterised by strong public support, clear policy direction, and world-leading industrial players, research capabilities, and technology ecosystems.
How
Business Sweden works to enable Swedish small and medium-sized enterprises to engage with large Japanese players involved in energy development and transformation. Through targeted support, Swedish companies can identify and pursue concrete business opportunities aligned with Japan’s national energy priorities and substantial public and private investment programmes.
The Business Sweden team in Japan actively facilitates connections, partnerships, and market entry activities between Swedish and Japanese companies across the energy sector. Platforms such as Japan Smart Energy Week, held twice annually in spring and autumn, provide valuable opportunities to engage directly with leading industry actors, gain market insights, and build long-term relationships in Japan’s evolving energy landscape.
Contact us
For more information contact Joakim Larsson at joakim.larsson@business-sweden.se