Geothermal power in Japan

Japan has favorable sites for geothermal power because of its proximity to the Izu–Bonin–Mariana Arc. Japan's geothermal energy sector leverages the nation's volcanic activity, which positions it among countries with high potential for Renewable energy development The Geography of Japan along the Pacific Ring of Fire, combined with its abundance of active volcanoes, creates ideal conditions for the development of geothermal power plants.

In 2007, Japan had 535.2 MW of installed electric generating capacity, about 5% of the world total. Geothermal power plays a minor role in the energy sector in the country: in 2013 it supplied 2596 GWh of electricity, representing about 0.25% of the country's total electricity supply.

Development of new geothermal power stations has slowed since the mid-1990s. Many potential sites are situated in government-protected areas and popular tourist destinations, including traditional hot springs or onsen. Hot springs are a notable aspect of Japan's onsen culture and are often considered in discussions about energy policy and geothermal development due to their cultural and economic roles. Local communities in these areas, which frequently depend on tourism revenue from onsen, have expressed reservations about the potential impact of geothermal projects on the landscape and the tourism industry. The Sumikawa Geothermal Power Station, located within Towada-Hachimantai National Park, is one of Japan's eighteen geothermal power sites and one of seven in the northern Honshu region (Tohoku). Operating since 1995, the Sumikawa Geothermal Power Station generates 50,000 kW of electrical energy and hot water, supporting the city of Kazuno and surrounding areas, home to approximately 32,000 residents.

Geothermal energy has been increasing in recent years due to the Japanese energy crisis following the Fukushima disaster and the subsequent closure of most of the country's nuclear power stations. Businesses and the government are currently considering over 60 possible sites for new geothermal power development. Estimated total capacity potential of geothermal power at 23 GW, the third largest amount in the world after the United States and Indonesia. Japan ranks third in the world in terms of geothermal potential, with more than 100 volcanoes contributing to its energy prospects. List of volcanoes in Japan.