Tokyo, Japan --- (METERING.COM) --- July 17, 2012 - Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) has launched feed-in tariffs for solar, wind, and geothermal power.

The tariffs are aimed at reducing Japan's dependence on nuclear energy and imported fossil fuels, in support of its transition to renewable energy sources.

The tariff levels, effective July 1 (and including tax), are set at 42 yen/kWh for solar power (10 kW or more), 23.1 yen/kWh for wind power (20 kW or more), and 27.3 yen/kWh for geothermal power (15,000 kW or more). The surcharge is set at 0.22 yen/kWh, while standard households (using 300 kWh/month) will pay an average 87 yen/month.

The rates are set for the period to March 31, 2013. Rates and terms will be set every year, or every six months if necessary.