Applying their underground resources development technologies and expertise, beginning in 2011, the three companies have carried out studies of commercialisation including joint exploration of underground resources in the Oyasu District, verification of the scale of resources and economic assessment. The investigation was subsidised by the Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation.

Based on the decision that commercialisation was feasible as a result of the investigation, the three companies have decided to enter into the construction phase of the build the Katatsumuri Yama Power Plant. Construction is scheduled to be supported by a loan guarantee from JOGMEC. Power generated will be certified under the Feed-in Tariff System for Renewable Energy (FIT system). (40 yen + tax per 1kWh for 15 years)

As the result of the evaluation of data from production tests (verification tests to assess production capacity) conducted over a period of three months in 2021, it is projected that long-term stable production of geothermal fluid (steam and hot water) equivalent to an output of approximately 15MW will be possible. Moreover, with a design planned to be eco-friendly and harmonized with the surrounding scenery, the three companies will be undertaking the construction and operation of the Katatsumuri Yama Power Plant as a facility that will contribute to the region.

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