Shiga Adopts Point System to Reduce Electricity Consumption

As part of its measures to help curb global warming, Shiga Prefecture has allocated 2.172 million yen (about U.S. $19,745) in its fiscal 2005 budget for an energy-saving point system. In managing this point system, the Shiga Prefectural Center for Promotion of Activities to Curb Global Warming aims to support activities undertaken by groups and help households reduce their electricity bills while contributing to curbing global warming.

Any group of 10 or more households living in the prefecture can participate in the program. The Center awards points to each household in accordance with its reduction in electricity consumption in 2005 compared with 2004. Total points obtained by households that belong a group are redeemed for cash for activities undertaken by the group. The participants are awarded points during a four-month period from July to October, when electricity demand peaks in Japan.

Reductions in monthly electricity use compared with the same month of the previous year are awarded at the following rates: 0.5 points for a 3-6% reduction, 1 point for 6-9%, 1.5 points for 9-12% and 2 points for 12% or more. The center calculates monthly points for each household and adds up the total for each group. Every month, the group receives 100 yen (about U.S. $0.9) per point, and 25 yen (about U.S. $0.2) for each household in the group as a data collection fee.

The support money can be used for activities aimed at helping curb global warming, environmental beautification, environmental education and household group activities.



Posted: 2005/09/10 09:16:13 AM
Japanese version