Breakthrough in Next-Generation Energy: Methane Hydrate Gas Utilized as Fuel

Aug 15, 2024 | News On Japan

TOKYO - In a world first, gas extracted from methane hydrate, a next-generation energy resource, has been successfully used as fuel.

The Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation (JOGMEC) announced on the 13th that they had completed a joint test with the U.S. National Energy Technology Laboratory last month. The test involved extracting gas from a methane hydrate layer in Alaska.

The extracted gas was consumed as fuel in generators, marking the first time globally that gas from a methane hydrate layer has been used as an energy source.

Methane hydrate, a crystalline substance composed of methane and water, is often referred to as "burning ice." It is widely found beneath the seabed around Japan and is anticipated to become a next-generation energy resource.

JOGMEC stated that they would analyze the data obtained from this test to inform future extraction tests around Japan's coastal waters and efforts toward eventual commercialization.

Source: ANN

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