Iran War: Japan's Government and Public Divided on Energy Saving

Two months into the Iran War, Japan's government remains cautious about energy-saving calls due to economic concerns, while the public largely recognizes the need for conservation, creating policy challenges.

Mon Apr 27 2026

Japan's Energy Saving Policy at a Crossroads Amid Iran War

Two months after the outbreak of the Iran War, there is a divergence in perception between the Japanese government and its citizens regarding electricity conservation and petroleum product saving. The Japanese government maintains a cautious stance on calls for energy saving, fearing a contraction in economic and social activities. Specifically, Prime Minister Sanae Koichi emphasized in a House of Councillors Budget Committee meeting on the 27th that economic activities 'should not be halted' and stated that efforts are underway to secure crude oil.

Public Supports Energy Saving, Government Ponders Policy Direction

The Japanese public appears to hold a different view than the government. A poll conducted by Nikkei Shimbun and TV Tokyo from the 24th to the 26th showed that 74% of respondents felt electricity conservation and saving were necessary given the Middle East situation. An ANN poll also found that 64% of respondents believed calls for electricity conservation and saving 'should be made.' While the Japanese government has consistently stated that there are no issues with securing crude oil until the end of the year, the prolonged Iran War and its implications, such as the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz, are gradually broadening their impact. This situation is expected to deepen the Sanae Koichi administration's 고민 over the direction of its energy policy.

*Source: Yahoo!ニュース (2026-04-27)*

Tags: #IranWar #Japan #EnergyPolicy #EnergySaving #SanaeKoichi