3 July 2012: The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan has launched feed-in tariffs for solar, wind, and geothermal power, and announced the tariff levels and the surcharge rates for consumers. The tariffs are aimed at reducing Japan’s dependence on nuclear energy and imported fossil fuels, in support of its transition to renewable energy sources.

The tariff levels are set at 42 yen/kWh for solar power (10 kW or more), 23.1 yen/kWh for wind power (20 kW or more), and 27.3 yen/kWh for geothermal power (15,000 kW or more). The surcharge is set at 0.22 yen/kWh, which for standard households will come down to 87 yen/month, or US$1.09 per month.

The rates are set for the period 1 July 2012-31 March 2013. The Minister for Industry will set rates and terms every year, or every six months if necessary. [Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry Press Release] [Clean Energy Solutions Center Press Release]