Accelerating the introduction of renewable energy is important not only for diversifying our sources of energy (Energy security) and combating global warming (Environment) but also for the development of green industries (Economy). It is essential for Japan to create an environment conducive to the expansion of the introduction of renewable energy in Japan by identifying the appropriate mix of regulatory measures (e.g., FIT(feed-in tariffs)), public support and private-sector voluntary efforts that are best suited to the characteristics of each energy source.

With regard to photovoltaic generation, an area where policies can have a significant effect on technology innovation and in which development of this sector is expected, a buyback program of surplus electricity was launched on November 1, 2009.

• [Press Release] The New Purchase System for Photovoltaic Electricity will be launched November 1, 2009. (August 31, 2009)

To create a more conducive environment, METI has decided to establish a "Project Team" on the a scheme for the Japan's FIT (hereinafter "the Project Team"), which will discuss what kind of system should be introduced to purchase renewable energy generated in Japan, in consideration of many aspects, such as how much burden to place on the public and measures to stabilize power systems.

In 2009

6 November	1st METI PT meeting

We implemented the 5th hearing within 2009, based on opinion collection.

30 November	1st hearing
3 December	2nd hearing
8 December	3rd hearing
10 December	4th hearing
22 December	5th hearing

In 2010

Mid-January	Overseas surveys to identify options to propose
Late January	2nd METI PT meeting
	Organizing issues, based on hearing surveys
From mid-February	3rd & 4th METI PT meeting
	Evaluating and summarizing policies in Japan and abroad; analyzing buyback costs
Around March	5th METI PT meeting
	Interim report: Presentation of options [options 3-5]

• [Press Release] Explanatory meetings on the review of the Basic Energy Plan and potential scenarios for Japan’s feed-in tariff scheme for renewable energy (March 26, 2010)