The Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation is working to identify and assess areas that may be suitable for generating power. It is using helicopters to analyze the density of rocks and magnetic fields in Kyushu, southern Japan, in order to determine underground structures. The agency will provide the data to private companies.
Studies have also begun on a proposed large-scale geothermal plant in a national park in Fukushima Prefecture, northeastern Japan. The research will evaluate the impact of the plant on the surrounding environment.
Toshihiro Matsumura, a renewable energy expert and professor at the University of Tokyo Institute of Social Science, says geothermal power should be rated highly because of its high operating rate and stability. He says geothermal resources should be developed along with solar and wind power even though it may take more effort than other energy sources.
The problem with geothermal energy is that it is costly to develop. The government began giving subsidies for individual projects last year.