Japan faces substantial challenges in managing its energy trade deficit and high end-user costs while aggressively pursuing decarbonization targets amidst geopolitical tensions. There are significant concerns about Japan’s ability to meet its emissions targets, casting doubts on its broader 2050 decarbonization plans. The draft 7th Strategic Energy Plan, which is expected to be published soon, proposes ambitious raised targets for renewable energy, nuclear power, and a reduction in fossil fuel use by 2040, while acknowledging that power demand will rise.