Japan's Alternative Energy Initiative - Wind Power Generation & Technology
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Japan is a heavily industrialized country with limited natural resources and a dense population. All its current energy needs are fulfilled by other nations. While the finite natural resources might make it a challenge to develop alternate energy sources, Japan is a nation that is giving earnest attention to development and progression in this area.
Japan is aware that it cannot continue its heavy dependence on the energy supplying nations and their allies. It has a pressing need to be self-dependent for its energy requirements, despite the geographical limitations it has in terms of size and rationed natural resources. They had a tough lesson to learn in World War II when their oil supply was heavily compromised by US and their military might was significantly weakened. Owing to some of these reasons, they are open to research into and development of alternate energy sources that will be able to sustain their nation and make them energy independent.
One of the alternatives Japan is currently considering is wind-powered energy. Two possibilities being explored are near-shore and off-shore installations of wind-turbines. While the near-shore installations have the advantage of easier construction and installation, the offshore score higher in terms of stronger winds and the expectancy of redeeming the higher initial costs of construction and foundation work.
The research is leading to more efficient equipment. The more efficient turbines are leading to reduction in the cost of producing energy. This is leading to rekindling the curiosity in wind energy and its potential, which are found to be by far more competitive than other renewable energies. Vestas Wind Systems A/S of Denmark, with the slogan "All we need is wind. Leaving more water for you…" are the world leaders in creating high technological wind power solution, and are working to harness wind energy to produce electricity.
Another technology Japan is increasingly using is the micro and mini hydroelectric power plants. Small output generators are setup near mountain streams, rivers and public water supplies. Water flows through long pipes, ending in a considerable drop, which turns a small turbine. This generates a sizable amount of electricity. The New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) defines the micro hydroelectric power plants as those which are run by water and have a maximum output of 100 KW of electric energy or less. The mini hydroelectric power plants have an output of 1000 KW. On Yakushima Island, a micro hydroelectric power facility installed by the Kamiyakucho municipal government generates 4 kilowatts of electricity. This provides energy for a mountain office and toilets for tourists.
While the micro and mini hydroelectric power plants have been seen for the longest time as most appropriate for generating electricity in mountainous areas, they have evolved enough with time that they are now a suitable solution for producing electricity in cities too.
This work is being done by a number of Japanese companies like Tokyo Electric Power Company, Kawasaki City Waterworks and Japan Natural Energy Company to bring these hydroelectric power plants to the cities.