Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike said on Aug. 20 that the metropolitan government is considering expanding subsidies to help elderly and disabled residents purchase air conditioners as part of its heatstroke prevention measures.
Speaking after inspecting new solar-powered garden lights in Tokyo, Koike called the initiative “a way to protect lives and health,” but stopped short of detailing how much support would be offered.
Tokyo already runs a program known as “Zero Emission Points,” which provides shopping credits — worth about ¥10,000 for an air conditioner — to residents who replace old appliances with more energy-efficient models.
The idea of strengthening subsidies has gained momentum after four political groups in the Tokyo Assembly — Tomin First, the Liberal Democratic Party, Komeito and the Democratic Party for the People — formally urged Koike on Aug. 18 to provide greater assistance for vulnerable households struggling with record heat.
by MagazineKey4532