Unifying Japan's power frequencies would cost 10 trillion yen

March 7, 2012 - kyodonews.jp

The Natural Resources and Energy Agency said Wednesday it is unrealistic to consider unifying the country's power frequencies that are set at 50 hertz in eastern Japan regions and 60 hertz in western regions, citing costs and other factors.

According to a study by the agency, about 10 trillion yen would be needed to replace related facilities and equipment such as power generators and transformers owned by power suppliers if the 60-hertz area is expanded nationwide.

The agency also said that factories using private electric generators or motors would also need to replace equipment.