Research Paper

Energy Strategy Insights - From Static Stockpiling to “Flowing” Stockpiling

Author	Yoshikazu Kobayashi
Summary	Five months have passed since the Strait of Hormuz was effectively blockaded, cutting off supplies accounting for more than 90% of Japan’s crude oil imports. In response to this unprecedented crisis, the Japanese government and the ...
Outline	During the Hormuz crisis, oil stockpiles played a critical role in supporting Japan’s energy supply. At the same time, the crisis highlighted challenges such as the compatibility of stockpiled crude oil with refining facilities and quality degradation resulting from long-term storage. In light of these lessons, Japan needs to shift from the conventional approach of “stockpiling for storage,” in which crude oil is kept for extended periods, to a “flowing stockpile” approach, in which crude oil is regularly rotated to maintain its quality and compatibility. This shift would enhance the effectiveness of stockpiles and their ability to be released in an emergency, while also contributing to the development of a naphtha stockpiling system.
Keyword	Oil stockpiles, Strategic Petroleum Reserve, Naphtha stockpiles, Emergency response capability
Media	ＨＰ (8/20/2026)
URL	https://eneken.ieej.or.jp/en/energy_strategy_insights.html
Report PDF	https://eneken.ieej.or.jp/data/13481.pdf