This episode is talking about “The start of ETS in Japan”. Japan’s new ETS, launching in April and covering 60% of national emissions, introduces a growth‑oriented design with realistic allowance allocation and free credits through FY 2033. With early energy‑transition support, a price band to spur investment, and limited carbon‑credit offsets, the system also creates new opportunities for global low‑carbon solution providers.

This episode is talking about “PM Takaichi’s Triumph”. PM Sanae Takaichi won the Lower House election, largely due to her strong popularity and the opposition parties’ weaknesses. Her victory enables her to pass legislation without relying on opposition support. While her administration is expected to maintain the overall direction of existing energy and climate policies, the mega‑solar sector may face notable impacts.

This episode is talking about “Significant Progress in Nuclear Power in Japan”. Local governors have approved restarting KK Unit 6 and Tomari Unit 3, signaling growing momentum for nuclear power in Japan. While this marks a major step, challenges remain for further restarts and reactor replacements.

This episode is talking about “Various Pathways for Decarbonizing Road Transport in the Global South”. BEVs are not the only solution for the Global South. In Indonesia, their life-cycle CO₂ emissions are currently the highest among powertrains and may remain so, while deployment costs must also be considered. Brazil benefits most from combining biofuels with hybrids, and biogas is a practical option for India. In some regions, climate conditions make BEVs less suitable, so road transport strategies should reflect local circumstances.

This episode is talking about “The integration costs of variable renewable energies must be considered”. LCOE alone doesn’t reflect the true cost of power. When integration costs of variable renewables are included, solar becomes expensive at high penetration levels. In Japan and ASEAN, total costs rise sharply beyond 34–50% VRE. A cost-effective energy mix must consider these integration costs.

This episode is talking about “Energy Efficiency of AI & Energy Efficiency by AI”. How AI is driving up energy demand—especially in data centers—and how improving its efficiency could help reduce global energy use. With the right strategies, AI could boost energy efficiency across industries by 2035, but it will require training, incentives, and better data practices.

This episode is talking about “Global Energy Outlook: Strong Demand Driven by India and ASEAN”. IEEJ’s Global Energy Outlook outlines rising energy demand—especially in India and ASEAN—alongside strong global gas use and ongoing coal expansion. While deep CO₂ cuts by 2050 are possible with technology, the 1.5°C goal is unlikely. Achieving 2°C remains feasible with more effort, and climate adaptation is increasingly vital.

This episode is talking about “Japan’s International Initiatives in the Energy Sector”. While Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has been struggling with political difficulties following the defeat in the Upper House election in July, leading to his announcement on September 7 to resign from the Presidency of LDP, the ruling party, he has also been leading Japan in a series of international energy initiatives.

This episode is talking about “Japan’s Politics Update”. This episode follows up the developments since the Upper House election held on July 20th. With the ruling coalition parties’ defeat, politics is becoming very fluid. Mr. Terazawa will explain Japan’s political situation, which is increasingly complex and confusing.

This episode is talking about “Japan’s Upper House Election on July 20th”. Japan's Upper House Election will be held on July 20th. The election results could have a major impact on the political landscape, but there is a lot of uncertainty, and the outcome is difficult to predict. Although it may have a significant political impact, its impact on energy policy will be minor.