JAPEX JAPAN PETROLEUM EXPLORATION CO.,LTD. [student studying abroad recruiting]

Methane Hydrate, an ice-like solid formed by methane gas captured within water molecules, is attracting attention as a new energy resource. It is known to exist in highly pressurized, low temperature natural environments, embedded in a shallow layer below the seabed at water depths of over 500m or in permafrost areas. By some estimates, the volume of methane hydrate in place is equivalent to about 1.1 trillion m³ of methane gas in the eastern Nankai Trough area. This volume corresponds roughly to the volume of the imported LNG (FY 2011) for about 11 years in Japan.
There are a variety of technical challenges to methane hydrate production tests. JAPEX was quick to recognize the potential of methane hydrate and undertook research into uncovering development technologies. JAPEX engaged in operator work in field tests of methane hydrate production on commission from Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation (JOGMEC) from November 2010. The world’s first offshore production test of methane hydrate was conducted in January through March 2013, confirming continuous offshore production of methane gas from methane hydrate layers.

To participate in the medium-to-long term offshore production test of the sand layer type methane hydrate development, JAPEX has established Japan Methane Hydrate Operating Co., Ltd (JMH) along with 11 companies such as oil development and engineering companies.

We intend to play a central role as a member of the Steering Committee of MH 21 while actively engaging in Japan’s research and development of methane hydrate.

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Burning artificial methane hydrate. Photo provided by the Research Consortium for Methane Hydrate Resources in Japan.

(As of June, 2014)

Phase 1(FY 2001 to 2008)

FY 2001: First onshore production test in Canada
FY 2002: 3D seismic survey in the eastern section of Tokai-oki to Kumano-nada
FY 2003: Exploratory test well in the eastern section of Tokai-oki to Kumano-nada
FY 2006: Detailed assessment of reserve volume in the eastern section of Tokai-oki to Kumano-nada
FY 2006-2007: Second onshore production test in Canada
FY 2008: Final assessment of Phase 1

Phase 2(FY 2009 to 2015)

FY 2012: First offshore methane hydrate production test at the Daini Atsumi Knoll off the coast of Atsumi and Shima peninsulas
FY 2015: Final assessment of Phase 2 (planned)

Phase 3(FY 2016 to 2018)

FY 2016-2018: Medium-to-Long-Term Offshore Production (planned)
FY 2018: Final assessment of Phase 3 (planned)