Environment Ministry will enhance promotion of low-carbon technologies possessed by Japanese companies to developing countries planning to build utilities such as waste treatment and water. The ministry will establish a fund to invest highly energy-efficient facility development chosen among Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)-assisted infrastructure projects. Subsidy by the fund to cover up to half of the initial cost will enable Japanese private sector to provide their advanced technology at relatively lower cost.

The policy is scheduled to continue until 2020. 4.2 billion yen is appropriated for the fund from fiscal 2014 governmental budget. A fund manager will be selected among non-profit organizations.

Possible targets are projects such as sewer, water, waste treatment, Bus Rapid Transit System, and renewable energy in developing countries. The ministry also considers applying the Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM) in the system, which can contribute to reducing Japan’s greenhouse gas emission target. (2014/03/07)