Open figure viewer
Significance
If successful, it could provide a filip for Japan's drive to decarbonise its economy and for Japanese auto manufacturers' efforts to develop an alternative to battery powered electric vehicles. Given the extent of methane hydrate deposits globally, success in Japan could have implications far and wide.
Impacts
China reported successful extraction of methane hydrate gas in the South China Sea and may increase its exploration efforts.
The crisis in natural gas markets could slow down hydrogen development unless alternative sources, such as methane hydrate, are developed.
Europe’s efforts will rise; German scientists are studying the stability of methane hydrate deposits in western parts of the Black Sea.
© Oxford Analytica 2021. All rights reserved. This content contains general information about geopolitical, macroeconomic and social developments or (where stated) other matters. It does not contain advice or recommendations that may be relied on. Where links to external websites are provided, this does not indicate that Oxford Analytica or Emerald agree with, endorse or have checked for accuracy the contents of said sites.
2021
You do not currently have access to this content.
