JAILCD2025-024: Regional Analysis of End-Use Energy Consumption in Japan's Residential Sector: Insights from Hokkaido and Kyushu

Abstract

Facing the global climate action, it is imperative to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions. In Japan, energy consumption and carbon emissions have been mitigated under policy-driven measures, but residential energy consumption still accounts for 15% of total energy consumption. This study analyzes household energy consumption in Hokkaido and Kyushu from 2005 to 2022, categorizing it into four end-uses: cooking/hot water, heating, cooling, and power/lighting. The results reveal a declining trend in total household energy consumption, with Hokkaido decreasing from 219.7 PJ to 178.7 PJ (a reduction of 18.7%) and Kyushu from 208.9 PJ to 158.3 PJ (a reduction of 24.2%). In Hokkaido, heating remains the dominant energy use due to its subarctic climate, while cooking/hot water consumption is higher in Kyushu. The 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake led to an increase in fossil fuel consumption, causing a surge in carbon emissions, with emissions reaching 4.5Mt CO2 in Hokkaido and 6.3Mt CO2 in Kyushu. However, emissions have since declined to 3.3Mt CO2 t and 4.2Mt CO2, respectively, by 2022. These findings highlight the influence of climate and household characteristics on regional energy consumption and underscore the need to accelerate renewable energy adoption and improve power generation efficiency. This study provides insights for future policy development to enhance energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact.