Agency for Natural Resources and EnergyNatural gas production from methane hydrate layers confirmedWorld’s first offshore methane hydrate production test

Methane hydrate is a compound material that consists of methane and water, crystallized in a low-temperature, high pressure state. A considerable amount of methane hydrate is estimated to be distributed in the marine zones surrounding Japan, and it is expected to be a natural gas resource in the future.

In late January, 2013, preparatory works began for the test to dissociate methane hydrate and extract natural gas off the coasts from Atsumi Peninsula to Shima Peninsula in Japan (see Appendix(PDF:382KB) (in Japanese)). On March 12, 2013, the world's first attempt of natural gas production was started as a part of the technical preparation that is required towards commercialization of methane hydrate

Test period:

scheduled from January to the end of March, 2013

Contractor:

−Implementing body: Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation

−Operator: Japan Petroleum Exploration Co., Ltd.

Vessel:

The Deep Sea Drilling Vessel "Chikyu"

Conceptual Diagram of the First Offshore Methane Hydrate Production Test(PDF:27KB)

ANRE will continue to conduct the gas production test for approximately two weeks. Upon completion of the test, the data including the amount of gas produced will be assembled and the results of the test will be investigated and analyzed.

Photos of the preparation work

A burner installed at the stern of the ship

Lowering a blow-out preventer

March 12, 2013

Petroleum and Natural Gas Division, Natural Resources and Fuel Department, Agency for Natural Resources and Energy