A comparative study of wind power in the United States, Europe and Japan : strategies applicable to Japan

Abstract

This thesis explores measures in the Japanese energy industry in order to meet the Kyoto target and further abate carbon dioxide beyond this target. To meet the Kyoto target, the Japanese government wants to increase renewable energy such as wind power as one of the measures. Wind power may be one of the most cost-effective renewable energy sources to address global warming. The world market for wind power is growing rapidly and the markets are concentrated in a few primary countries, with Europe (especially Germany) and the United States leading expansion. However, Japan is now taking its first steps to develop a large-scale commercial market for wind power. It is now difficult for renewable energy, such as wind power, to become a major energy source due to its high cost and intermittent supply. However, it is the author's belief that Japan can increase wind power energy to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by applying appropriate policies and technical development in the power industry. This thesis examines policies designed to encourage the development of wind power in three countries-Germany, Denmark, and the United States-and compares the policies enacted in each of these countries to policies that are used in Japan.

(cont.) Measures that are applicable to shaping the implementation of renewable energy, especially wind power energy are examined and future policy measures are proposed to increase the use and development of wind power in Japan, consequently reducing carbon dioxide emissions.