Seven major electric power companies have decided to raise electricity rates for households. The rate increases will take effect on June 1. The rate of increase will vary from 14% to 42%, depending on the area. For a standard household (400 kWh/month), the rate increases will be 21% in Hokkaido, 24% in Tohoku, 14% in Tokyo, 42% in Hokuriku, 29% in Chugoku, 25% in Shikoku, and 38% in Okinawa.

The electricity rate for a standard household will increase from 2,078 yen to 5,323 yen per month compared to the rate in November of last year. A government subsidy of 2,800 yen will be deducted, but that subsidy is only available until September, and if not extended, the burden will increase from October.