Japan Petroleum Exploration (JAPEX) began drilling its second exploratory well on 15 August to confirm the presence of formations suitable for CO₂ storage as part of the Tomakomai CCS project in Hokkaido.
The well uses extended-reach drilling from a rig installed in Masago-cho, Tomakomai City, targeting formations beneath the seabed.
JAPEX drilled the well under an exploratory drilling permit obtained from the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry.
A spud-in ceremony took place on 6 August, attended by 27 people including government officials and local stakeholders.
JAPEX will combine data from the second well with results from the first exploratory well to support a final investment decision on the Tomakomai CCS project.
The project involves capturing CO₂ from Idemitsu Kosan’s Hokkaido refinery and Hokkaido Electric Power’s Tomato Atsuma power station, with JAPEX handling underground injection and storage.
The partners are targeting the start of CO₂ storage by FY 2030.
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