Building Japan’s geothermal expertise in New Zealand
The JOGMEC Training Course on Multi-user Geothermal Management, from 17th to 21st February 2025, was successfully concluded in Rotorua, New Zealand.
Multi--user Geothermal Management: Utilising Shallow and Deep Reservoirs | 17th – 21st February 2025
Organised in collaboration with Japanese government agency JOGMEC
This intensive five-day program brought together geothermal professionals, researchers, and industry stakeholders from Japan and New Zealand to deepen their knowledge of effective management of geothermal reservoirs that are utilised by multiple users of both the shallow and deep aquifers.
The training course was made possible via a valuable partnership with Traverse Environmental, Bay of Plenty Regional Council and Kaihautū – Tāmore Ltd. Presentations and discussions covered a wide range of social, cultural, reservoir management and technical topics.
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Key highlights and outcomes
- A total of 14 participants from Japan took part in the program, including 3 from JOGMEC and 11 from private sector companies such as Obayashi Corporation, Mitsubishi Materials, Mitsubishi Gas Chemical, Idemitsu Kosan, and West JEC.
- The program was conducted under the leadership of Japan Science Leader Andrew Rae and Japan Country Manager Yoshifumi Imamura of GNS.
- The event kicked off with a traditional Māori welcome / whakatau by Tredegar Hall, setting a culturally enriching tone for the program.
- Discussions on cultural and social aspects, such as stakeholder engagement and management of competing uses.
- Technical discussions on enhanced understandings of geothermal system conceptualisation, 3D modeling, numerical modeling, and monitoring techniques.
- Practical exposure to geothermal field operations and direct engagement with local communities.
- Strengthened international collaboration between Japanese and New Zealand geothermal stakeholders.
- Valuable discussions on integrating adaptive geothermal management strategies in the Japanese context.
In addition to classroom-based learning, participants engaged in extensive field trips, including key geothermal sites, Rotorua, Wairakei, Ohaaki and Kawerau, gaining insights into the technical, environmental, and cultural aspects of geothermal resource management, and the environmental impacts of geothermal resource utilisation. These experiences provided a strong foundation for developing sustainable geothermal projects in Japan.
Visits to Māori geothermal sites such as Whakarewarewa and Te Puia, where they observed traditional and modern uses of geothermal energy, and heard about the cultural importance to indigenous people of maintaining traditional geothermal uses.
On Day 3, when visiting Wairakei and learning about its successful geothermal power generation, participants openly observed the environmental impact of geothermal development at Thermal Valley, Karapiti, and Otumuheke Stream. This visit provided a reality check, reinforcing the Japanese concept of "genchi genbutsu" as a Toyota way—seeing the actual site and experiencing firsthand the implications of industrial operations.
On Day 5, thanks to the support of the Bay of Plenty Regional Council, participants had the opportunity to visit Kawerau. This visit showcased how the region maximises geothermal energy through multi-purpose steam use and reservoir integration for direct use heat applications and power generation.
The training concluded with a Certificate Ceremony, capturing moments of celebration and achievement, as seen in the shared photos, with smiles all around. Participants reflected on their experiences, with one stating, "At Kawerau, we witnessed a truly unique approach to geothermal utilisation. The multi-purpose use of steam and the integration of multiple reservoirs were remarkable. The scale of the power plants was far beyond what we see in Japan. It was eye-opening to see how efficiently geothermal energy is being utilised."
Each day was intense and enriching. This was an unforgettable week that will stay with me for the rest of my life
Acknowledgment and Appreciation
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all those who made this training course a success, especially Traverse Environmental, Bay of Plenty Regional Council and Tredegar Hall. Special thanks go to our local hosts, technical experts, and industry leaders who shared their insights and expertise, enhancing the learning experience for participants.
The success of this training course underscores the importance of continued collaboration in advancing geothermal energy management. Given the positive response and impact of this training, we aim to make it a recurring annual event to further strengthen knowledge exchange and industry collaboration.