Hirata City of Shimane Prefecture in western Japan launched a joint study group named 'Izumo-no-kuni Hydrogen Society Project' on June 1, 2004. Its aim is to develop a hydrogen-based society and create hydrogen powered industries. Participants are from the academic, business and governmental sectors, and include eight companies, two universities, Hirata City, Izumo City and four nearby towns that will merge with Izumo in March, 2005

One of the participating companies is planning to construct a biomass gasifier power plant in Hirata City, and it will install a hydrogen production unit in the plant in the future. Under this project, forest resources from the Izumo region will be utilized as the main biomass source. Moreover, a plan is in progress to install Japan's largest wind-power plant near the city's shoreline, which, if built, will also be provide power for hydrogen production.

With the project, Hirata City aims to create a hydrogen-based society where power is provided from fuel cells to vehicles, ships, and households. The city also aims to promote reforestation by utilizing wood biomass, and to improve residents' lives by offering them the chance to enjoy nature in the forest.

This plan has selected to receive support from the Ministry of the Environment as a model project that creates a positive cycle between the environment and the economy, and to expand such efforts in Japan and internationally.



Posted: 2004/09/21 04:50:37 PM
Japanese version

TAG Ecosystem , Energy , Government , Local government , System/Law , Transportation