The Japanese government is exploring the possibility of remotely controlling privately-owned ACs and water heaters to prevent power outages, according to Electrek. 

The move is due to the country's switching to renewables, but the question is, could this work? Or could this be too intrusive for Japanese households and businesses? 

Will It Work?

The Energy Conservation Subcommittee of the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry is considering implementing measures that will further encourage the adoption of ACs and water heaters to be adjusted remotely. Therefore, the Japanese government can turn ACs and water heaters up or down when necessary. 

The government explains that power outages occur when demand and supply don't always match. Due to the growing demand to expand the introduction of renewable energy toward decarbonization, the fluctuations in power output to the climate are difficult to adjust. Should this be implemented, the government won't have a hard time because most water heaters and ACs in the country already come with smart controls. 

Currently, they are still working under the concept that the government would be able to turn down the units only if the individual owners have agreed in advance. Coordinating a collective power down, however, is still difficult to do. 

Also read: Japan is Fighting Back Against its Overwork Culture via Vertical 'Nap Boxes'

The Road Towards Decarbonization

Japan has already been attempting to decrease its carbon emissions and set the tone for increasing the amount of renewable energy in the country. Yet, the government has only made some progress. 

Aside from the government constructing three floating solar panel power plants, they have also been looking into a geothermal power station to develop renewable energy resources.

However, the Japanese government is not alone in its attempt to introduce renewable energy sources. Many countries are attempting to cut their reliance on fossil fuels or shift their entire grid to renewable energy.

As we have seen, there are many methods being explored to accomplish this, from solar power to wind energy.

For example, an entire country like Denmark has already been able to rely on more than two-thirds of its electricity from renewable energy like wind and solar. Denmark has also been able to decrease its carbon emissions by 70%.

If this program of the Japanese government can be developed, then it could give the country the push it needs to meet its target of having at least 36-38% of the country's energy coming from renewable energy sources by 2030.

The idea of the government taking over one's air conditioning unit is a scary thought. However, if this is what it takes for the country to control its emissions and rely more on renewable energy sources, then it is a move that should be considered. It will not only help the environment, but it will also help Japan save money.

Related article: Japan to Drop World's Largest Turbine Into The Ocean to Harvest Energy

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Written by April Fowell