The International Energy Agency urged Japan on Tuesday to restore public confidence in nuclear energy in light of its plans to increase its nuclear power output by 30 percent by 2010.
The Paris-based agency also stated in an energy policy report on Japan -- issued every four years -- that Tokyo should clarify the role of nuclear power amid the growing liberalization of the nation's electricity sector and its heavy reliance on Middle East oil imports.
"It is important for Japan to improve public acceptance of nuclear energy as a way to ensure stable energy supply and mitigate climate change," IEA Executive Director Claude Mandil said in releasing the report, titled Energy Policies of IEA countries -- Japan 2003 Review.