Canadian firm awarded contract for geothermal power project in Northern Japan

TerraScale and SubTerra to to develop the Green Snow geothermal project in Northern Japan (source: TerraScale)

Subterra Renewables, a Canada-based geothermal developer and engineering firm specializing in distributed heating, cooling, and power generation utilities, has been awarded the contract for a proposed geothermal power project in Northern Japan following a competitive RFP administered by California-based clean infrastructure design and development company TerraScale Inc.

The Green Snow Project in Northern Japan is a hybrid renewable energy venture that aims to tap into the region’s abundant low to medium-heat geothermal resources for power generation. It is being developed by TerraScale with the California-based Climate Transition Development Corporation and the Japanese company, Global Family. 113 acres of land have been secured in Northern Japan for the Green Snow Project.

As part of the terms of the RFP, Subterra has been granted the first right of exclusivity to own the geothermal and to operate and maintain it over the 15-year lifetime of the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). This right extends to future geothermal energy and power projects developed by TerraScale as well. Similar facilities are currently under consideration for development in Japan and across the globe.

The United States and Japan have joined forces in the development of geothermal energy, following an agreement reached during a meeting of the Group of Seven energy and environment ministers in Hokkaido, Japan. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm and Japan’s Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Yasutoshi Nishimura, signed a memorandum of commitment, recognizing geothermal energy as a renewable technology to be jointly advanced by both nations. This collaboration will involve research, development, and the pursuit of geothermal projects not only in the US and Japan but also in other countries, aiming to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and combat climate change.

The Green Snow project, in line with Japan’s climate goals, highlights the significance of international cooperation in driving clean energy solutions, serving as a catalyst for future geothermal initiatives and setting new benchmarks for global renewable energy and sustainable practices.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Subterra on the deployment of our geothermal projects. Subterra has assumed a pivotal role in addressing climate change and accelerating the adoption of geothermal exchange and other low-carbon heating methods. Their unwavering commitment to sustainability and innovative approaches positions them at the forefront of driving the adoption of renewable heating and cooling solutions for communities. Together, we are well-positioned to expedite the transition to a cleaner and more efficient energy future,” said Danny Hayes, CEO of TerraScale.

“The Green Snow project exemplifies the significance of international collaboration in driving innovation, sustainability, and the transition to renewable energy sources. Our shared aspirations with the United States and Japan align perfectly in our mission to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and pave the way towards a cleaner, more sustainable energy landscape,” added Kyle Boynton, VP of Portfolio Management of Subterra.

Source: Subterra Renewables