JNEC to Launch Micro-Hydro Power Business

Japan Natural Energy Company, or JNEC, has decided to launch a micro hydroelectric business that utilizes unused hydropower resources such as those in water supply and sewerage systems. JNEC is Japan's pioneer in promoting the Green Power Certification System, a program for contracting power generation using renewable energy, to provide corporate customers with a new measure for environmental protection.

It is estimated that Japan has about 400,000 kilowatts' worth of hydropower resources that are not used as energy from existing water facilities. Utilizing such resources has not progressed so far, mainly due to cost inefficiency. The company, however, is at present in a situation to be able to start the new business, thanks to the development of low-cost and easy-to-maintain power generating systems and the improved joint project scheme with resource owners, including local governments.

JNEC aims to utilize 25,000 kW worth of the unused hydroelectric resources, generating 150 million kWh annually. The total construction cost is estimated at five billion yen (U.S.$42 million). The company expects annual sales of one billion yen (U.S.$8.4 million) by selling generated electricity.



Posted: 2003/06/12 09:43:05 AM
Japanese version