The Top Runner Program is a mandatory standard under the Energy Conservation Act, aimed at improving energy efficiency for manufacturers and importers of energy-consuming products. Initially, the program targeted air conditioning motors, widely used across various industries, following an amendment in 2013. Under this amendment, manufacturers were required to meet energy efficiency standards for AC motors by the fiscal year 2015.

Amendment on 21st January 2020: A cabinet order was approved to expand the scope of the Top Runner Program, covering sectors such as transportation, commercial, and household. The new enforcement, effective 1st April, now includes electric vehicles (EVs) alongside gasoline, light oil, and LP gas-powered vehicles. Additionally, the scope of insulation materials is broadened. Following a report by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) last June, new fuel efficiency standards have been set, with the target year of FY2030. These standards also include plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs), marking significant changes to the Top Runner Program.