Publication date: Nov 17, 2025 Japan Outlines 2050 Roadmap for Introducing Next-Generation Geothermal

Japan Outlines 2050 Roadmap for Introducing Next-Generation Geothermal

The public-private council on next-generation geothermal power has finalized a 2050 roadmap to introduce the technology, with the roll out beginning in 2030. The plan states that the previously indicated installation target of 7.7 GW by 2050 will not serve as an upper limit, noting the potential additional capacity from technological innovation. A new expert panel, ‘the study group on the appropriate utilization of next-generation geothermal resources’, comprising specialists in geothermal resources, subsurface geology, environmental impact, and related fields (government institutions such as Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security (JOGMEC) participating as observers), will be established under the council to advance discussions necessary for implementing the roadmap.

The roadmap sets out the required steps for the introduction of three technologies categorized as next-generation geothermal power, and for each technology, exploratory wells are planned for completion by 2028 and production wells by 2030. Supercritical geothermal development is expected to enable power plants in the 100–200 MW range per site, while closed-loop and EGS (Enhanced Geothermal Systems) target facilities in the 20–50 MW range.

Accelerating Conventional Geothermal Development

The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and JOGMEC also announced the launch of the “Geothermal Frontier Project” to accelerate the development of conventional geothermal resources, where exploration and development risks remain high. Yuzawa City in Akita Prefecture has been selected as the initial candidate site, and JOGMEC will conduct drilling and resource assessment. The data obtained through these investigations will be shared with developers to help reduce development risk and lower project costs. Drilling is expected to take place in 2027.
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