Japan Energy Summit & Exhibition 2025: Global Leaders Advocate for Energy Resilience and Strategic Collaboration in Tokyo

The Japan Energy Summit & Exhibition kicked off in Tokyo, bringing together global leaders who emphasized the importance of energy resilience, strategic investment, and long-term collaboration. The event, organized by dmg events, commenced on June 19, 2025, at Tokyo Big Sight and welcomed energy professionals, policymakers, and innovators from various sectors of the global energy value chain. This year’s summit addresses rising energy demand, increasing geopolitical risks, and urgent climate objectives, focusing on discussions that bridge the gap between energy security and decarbonization.

During the Opening Ceremony, key figures highlighted the event’s significance. Yoshifumi Murase, Commissioner of Japan’s Agency for Natural Resources and Energy (METI), reaffirmed Japan’s dedication to balancing climate goals with industrial resilience and economic growth. Shinichi Sasayama, CEO of Tokyo Gas, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for diversified energy supply. He noted, “The structure of energy demand and supply is undergoing a profound transformation, influenced by global volatility, renewable integration, and long-term growth.”

Following the ceremony, a notable Global CEO Panel titled “Securing Tomorrow: A Vision for Sustainable Growth in the Energy Sector” was moderated by Bloomberg anchor Shery Ahn. The panel featured prominent leaders including Yukio Kani, Global CEO & Chair of JERA Co., Inc.; Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman & CEO of TotalEnergies; and Meg O’Neill, CEO & MD of Woodside Energy. O’Neill highlighted the role of energy prices in global crises, stressing the need for long-term relationships and diversified sources to ensure a swift and responsible response.

Yukio Kani pointed out the vulnerabilities in Japan’s LNG import system, stating, “While our exposure to the Middle East remains limited, Tokyo Bay’s inventory covers only 10 days. Any disruption could be critical—diversification is essential.” He also mentioned that JERA has secured 5.5 million tonnes of LNG from the U.S. Gulf to meet anticipated demand post-2030. Patrick Pouyanné reinforced the importance of a long-term strategy, noting that TotalEnergies has secured over 30% new LNG capacity since the Russian conflict by diversifying their project base across the U.S., Mozambique, and Oman. He emphasized that supply security relies on trust and resilience, with affordability being a crucial factor.

All panelists reiterated their commitment to the energy transition, advocating for a realistic approach to decarbonization. Kani remarked, “We must stay committed to net zero, but we also need to be realistic about demand, supply constraints, and the volatility in LNG consumption patterns.” O’Neill pointed to the increasing baseline demand from data centers and digital infrastructure, stating, “24/7 power is non-negotiable, and LNG remains the most practical near-term solution to replace higher-emitting fuels. The challenge is not demand—it’s reducing emissions while maintaining supply.”

In closing, Pouyanné summarized the potential for collaboration, stating, “Japan is one of our most reliable partners—an innovation leader and a market that understands long-term energy strategy. We need more of that in today’s world.”

The Strategic Summit and Technical Conference will continue over the next two days, featuring over 300 speakers from government, industry, and finance discussing topics such as LNG, hydrogen, ammonia, carbon management, digitalization, and infrastructure investment. The exhibition area hosts more than 100 exhibitors showcasing technologies crucial for Japan’s clean energy transformation, including the Climatetech Zone and the Energy Innovators Challenge, which highlight next-generation ideas and entrepreneurs shaping the future of energy. The Japan Energy Summit & Exhibition will run until June 20 and is co-hosted by Tokyo Gas and JERA.