Japan Allows More Coal-Fired Power to Cope With Energy Shock.

The article focuses on Japan's decision to increase the use of coal-fired power plants to enhance energy supply security amid disruptions caused by the Middle East conflict. Japan will allow less-efficient coal facilities to participate in capacity market auctions starting in April, reversing previous restrictions aimed at reducing emissions. This shift, combined with increased output from the Kashiwazaki Kariwa nuclear plant, is expected to offset about 40% of liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports previously received via the Strait of Hormuz. The move reflects broader regional and global trends toward greater coal use due to energy supply uncertainties and high gas prices, despite Japan’s ongoing commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. [Extracted from the article]