Hitachi’s interest in developing small modular reactors in Japan reflects how the energy crisis is changing the commercial and political case for nuclear power. Expensive imported fuels have made electricity security more urgent for households, manufacturers and policymakers.

Nuclear generation offers a way to reduce exposure to recurring fossil-fuel purchases while supplying low-carbon electricity. But exploring domestic SMR deployment remains an early step. The comments do not establish a selected site, a utility customer, regulatory approval or a financed construction programme, all of which would be necessary before the prospect becomes a deliverable source of power.

Emerging Asia’s retreat from some LNG power projects challenges a central assumption behind the global gas industry’s expansion: that rapidly growing economies would increasingly replace coal with imported gas. Electricity demand continues to rise, but governments and utilities are reassessing whether LNG offers an affordable and dependable way to meet it.

Repeated supply shocks, expensive fuel and delays in obtaining equipment have weakened the case for projects that once appeared commercially attractive. Renewables are gaining opportunities as a result, although coal could also benefit wherever governments prioritise immediately available generation.

The European Union’s emerging strategy for COP31 reflects a change in climate diplomacy: greater emphasis on implementing existing promises after repeated difficulties securing stronger ones. Brussels wants a package that keeps emissions reductions central to negotiations while encouraging practical cooperation on electrification and the transition away from fossil fuels.

This could make progress possible in a divided international environment. But the proposal also contains a fundamental tension: Europe wants countries to accelerate implementation while ruling out new climate funding commitments at the summit.