It is hard to believe the nation that invented the lithium-ion battery, the hybrid car and solar-powered calculator has fallen so far behind.The perimeter of Fujisawa Sustainable Smart Town in Japan is lined with solar panels that generate electricity for the estate.in 2011, the world’s third- and fourth-largest exporters decided on radical changes to their energy policies. Both agreed that a break was needed from the grids of the past.
Japan shut down its nuclear sector almost immediately, and made up most of the difference by burning more coal. Germany announced a slower nuclear phase-out, along with support for the nascent wind and solar industries. Twelve years later, the differences are stark.Easy access any time via ST app on 1 mobile deviceResend verification e-mail