After Japan’s capital, Tokyo, was hit by the most severe heatwave in June since 1875, the government called on Tokyo and surrounding areas to save electricity amid rising energy needs and supply problems. The need for electricity, which increased with the temperature, prompted the government to take measures against a possible energy crisis in Tokyo and its surrounding regions. The government called for 37 million people living in the capital and its environs to save electricity, reiterated its call for cooperation to the public as the heat continues today. While the energy provider company Tokyo Electric Power called on the residents of the area it serves to save energy, especially between 15.00 and 18:00, it was recommended to avoid unnecessary air conditioning use.

Speaking after the cabinet meeting, Japanese Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Koichi Hagiuda stated that it is important for Japan’s nuclear power plants to operate at full capacity in order to ensure adequate supply. Japan Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno, referring to the expected energy output from the power plants that have undergone maintenance and periodic inspections as of now, heralded that the supply is expected to increase from the second half of this week.