Aeon open to power saving

As of next month Japanese retailer Aeon will open two hours earlier as the country steps up efforts to limit power consumption.

According to a report by the Japan Times, the retailer has brought forward its opening hours to 7am for people who wish to shop in the cooler morning hours. It is anticipated many businesses will move working hours forward to reduce power-hungry air-conditioning usage.

While the retailer has no plans to close earlier, it has vowed to keep electricity consumption at the same level as last year through such means as power-saving lighting.

The Japanese government recently called for homes and businesses to cut power consumption by as much as 15 per cent amid concerns nuclear power shutdowns will lead to power shortages and blackouts.