The Role of Ordinances and Councils in Consensus Building of Geothermal Power Generation

A case study of Oguni-cho, Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan

Abstract

Interest in renewable energy is rapidly increasing in Japan, especially with the implementation of the feed-in tariff system (FIT) in July, 2012. However, while the introduction of renewable energy contributes to decarbonization, their potential overdevelopment could lead to conflicts between the developers and local stakeholders. Upon geothermal power generation in Japan, local consensus building is highly important, as there are unique stakeholders, including hot spring business operators who have serious business stakes in geothermal resources. Some local governments have taken to stipulate regulations on the development of geothermal power generation, to facilitate dialogue among the stakeholders. The ordinances, and the associated councils, established by such municipalities are expected to play an essential role in local geothermal energy governance. This paper highlights the effects of the local regulatory framework, to evaluate to what extent they contribute to geothermal development, which coexists with the local community, focusing on a case in Kyushu, Japan.