Kyuden Mirai Energy, a subsidiary of Kyushu Electric Power, has announced the start of construction of the 4990 kW Kirishima Eboshi-dake geothermal power plant. Work will start in September 2024, with commissioning scheduled for the end of fiscal 2026. Located northeast of Mount Eboshi, the plant will use binary power plant technology. Two production wells and two re-injection wells (including a back-up well) will be used to operate the plant.
Project development
Preparations for this geothermal project began in mid-2022. After more than two years of planning and development, the announcement of the start of construction marks a significant step forward. The future power plant is expected to generate 32 million kWh annually, equivalent to the energy needs of over 10,000 households.
Potential and opportunities
Yuji Hamada, Director of the Geothermal Planning Department at Kyuden Mirai Energy, emphasized the Kagoshima region’s significant geothermal potential. He claims that this initiative could catalyze the expansion of renewable energies in the region, boosting energy self-sufficiency and sustainability.
Economic and environmental benefits
The construction of this geothermal power plant will not only create local jobs, but also improve the region’s energy stability. By using a renewable energy source, this project will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels, while supporting Japan’s energy transition. Kyuden Mirai Energy ‘s involvement in this project underlines a growing trend towards the exploitation of renewable energy resources in Japan. By diversifying energy sources and investing in sustainable technologies.
