5 questions about liberalization of the electricity market that consumers may be afraid to ask

Q. Does switching power companies mean installing a new power line? Is there a risk of frequent power blackouts?
A. Because the same power transmission network will be used, it is not necessary to install a new power line. The quality and reliability (including the possibility of blackouts) of the electricity itself is the same regardless of which company you buy it from. If your contracted power company is unable to procure sufficient power, the company which manages the power transmission network will make up the difference, preventing any immediate interruption in the electricity supply.
Q. I live in rental housing. Can I still switch my power company?
A. Yes, if the current contract with the power company is in your name. If the contract is in the name of another person, check with that person.
Q. I live in a condominium. Can I still switch my power company?
A. Persons who live in condominiums can also choose their power companies.
However if the management association or other body has concluded a contract to supply power to the entire building, then your choices may be limited by the contract or by the condominium regulations. Please check with the management association or other body.
Q. If my contracted power company goes bankrupt, will my electricity supply stop?
A. Even if the company goes bankrupt, your electricity will not be stopped immediately.
You will continue to receive power supplied from the regional power company (Tokyo Electric Power Company, Kansai Electric Power Company, etc.) until you find a new provider.
Q. If I do not do something before April 2016, will my electricity be stopped?
A. There is no need to worry. Your current power company will continue to provide electricity in the same way as before.

Click here for detailed FAQ related to liberalization of the electricity market.

Electricity and Gas Market Surveillance Commission homepage

* Also refer to "Don't be tricked! 5 untruths about full liberalization of the electricity market" (homepage of the Electricity and Gas Market Surveillance Commission) which collects a number of common misunderstandings about full liberalization of the electricity market.

* Go to the "List of registered retail electricity suppliers" page for a list of power companies that have been registered with the government of Japan. Go to the "How can I switch my provider?" page for an explanation of the process for changing to a new power company.

* Businesses which are registered with the government of Japan as retail electricity providers

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