Masayoshi Son finds his best possible biographer in Lionel Barber, the former editor of the FT. Barber (Dulwich School and St Edward’s Hall, Oxford ) has elegant establishment credentials, but he also has an entertainingly thuggish streak, like those upper-class SAS army officers who join special units because they rather enjoy the murder and mayhem.

In an era of geopolitical uncertainty, climate urgency, and rapid technological transformation, cross-border energy collaboration has become both a necessity and a challenge. The complexity of aligning national priorities, regulatory environments, and private sector incentives often stalls progress just when acceleration is most needed.

Japanese investment in European infrastructure is on the rise, particularly in clean-tech, smart city development, and sustainable mobility. Yet for European developers, municipalities, and climate-focused startups, partnering with Japanese investors is not as simple as aligning on spreadsheets and pitch decks. It involves understanding distinct business cultures, adjusting timeline expectations, and navigating cross-border complexities.

The global clean energy transition is accelerating—but not at the same pace everywhere. While many regions are still figuring out how to attract the right capital, talent, and technology, Ireland and Wales are quietly positioning themselves as key players in the next phase of green energy investment.