Recent Geothermal Research and Development Techniques for Evaluation of Geothermal Reservoir in Japan

Abstract

Geothermal Energy Research & Development Co., Ltd. was established in November 1975 under the auspices of the former Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI). It began as a joint venture launched by geothermal development-related private enterprises in Japan with the aim of in order to promoting the research and development of geothermal energy as part of in the Sunshine Program that MITI initiated began in 1974. We have participated in the research and development of geothermal technologies conducted through the Sunshine Program, and have strived to introduce foreign cutting-edge geothermal technologies and to offer consulting services and information. At the present time, we have nearly reached the point where are also actively approaching application of our geothermal technologies we have developed can be applied so far to other fields. Examples of them include oil, gas, methane hydrate, metallic deposits, civil engineering, groundwater, protection against earthquakes, under-sea crustal structure study, the geological sequestration of carbon dioxide, and the underground disposal of a high level of nuclear wastes. With the recent trend in increasing human economic and social activities, global warning and other environmental problems have become apparent. Regarded as environment-friendly, clean, and renewable, the geothermal energy is expected to develop still further. Therefore, we will make our utmost efforts not only to contribute to the progress of the geothermal development but also to expand our new consulting business. We will present our recent and cutting-edge development techniques for evaluation of geothermal reservoir in this symposium.