Japan, New Zealand strenghten geothermal innovation partnerships
Signing of MOU for geothermal partnerships between New Zealand and Japan (source: GNS Science)
Carlo Cariaga
27 Jun 2024
Newly signed agreements between several companies strengthen the ties for joint geothermal work and innovation between New Zealand and Japan.
A number of agreements between companies from New Zealand and Japan were signed during the recent visit of a New Zealand delegation to Japan led by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. These agreements strengthen the partnership between the two countries in the areas of geothermal innovation, knowledge sharing, and joint development of geothermal projects.
The New-Zealand Japan Geothermal Coalition
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between New Zealand’s GNS Science, Geo40, and Western Energy, and Japan’s Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company (MGC). The MoU streamlines collaboration and knowledge sharing between the parties, leveraging the shared expertise to boost Japan’s geothermal power generation and create further opportunities for development in both New Zealand and Japan.
GNS Science, Geo40, and Western Energy are members of the New Zealand-Japan Geothermal Coalition and established leaders in global geothermal collaboration. The Coalition’s presence in Japan is funded by a co-investment model, supported by New Zealand Trade and Enterprise’s International Growth Fund.
“New Zealand has a long history of partnering globally, sharing our world-leading expertise in geothermal innovation with the world,” said The Right Honourable Christopher Luxon said. “This partnership represents a continuation of our close cooperation with Japan on renewable energy.”
“With New Zealand’s established leadership in the global geothermal industry, our expertise will bridge gaps in the Japan’s market. Japan’s innovation capability, particularly in engineering will also help grow New Zealand’s capability,” added Chelydra Percy, Chief Executive of GNS Science.
Eastland Generation and Obayashi
During the same visit, New Zealand-based renewable energy company Eastland Generation also had a formal signing ceremony with Japanese construction firm Obayashi Corporation to commemorate the acquisition of a 50% stake of Obayashi in Eastland Generation.
The partnership will bring together Eastland Generation’s and Obayashi Corporation’s complementary expertise to advance sustainable energy development towards a carbon neutral future.
Together, they own three geothermal generation assets in the central North Island: Te Ahi o Maui (26MW), Geothermal Developments Ltd (9MW), and TOPP1 (24MW). They also own a hydropower station (5MW) near Wairoa and a utility-scale solar farm (5MW) in Tairawhiti. Additionally, Eastland Generation’s pipeline of development projects, such as the TOPP2 (49MW) geothermal project, along with other renewable opportunities and feasibility studies, are part of this partnership.
“This partnership is a great example of how New Zealand and Japanese companies can successfully collaborate and add value to each other through investment and shared knowledge, while delivering strong benefits to our people and
our communities and driving better outcomes for our planet,” commented the Prime Minister.
Source: GNS Science and Eastland Generation via email correspondence
