The Energy Engineering Research Laboratory of CRIEPI has been involved in research and development related to various heat utilization technologies in the electric power industry. More specifically, the laboratory performs R&D for thermal power generation as a large-scale power source, and highly functional heat-utilization systems and devices on the part of power consumers are dealt with.

  The major objectives of our current activities are to realize "thermal power generation technologies that are both environmentally friendly and highly efficient, such as the "CO₂-capturing integrated coal gasification combined cycle", to enhance "energy security by promoting subbituminous coal and biomass fuels for thermal power generation", and to develop "high-performance heat pumps and other consumer/industrial energy-saving devices."

  The Great East Japan Earthquake and the tsunami in 2011 greatly affected Japan in various ways. Thermal power generation will be expected to supply power more robustly, while remaining efficient with low environmental impact. Advanced heat utilization systems and devices should be developed not only for the promotion of electrification, but also for the introduction of more sophisticated ways of utilizing energy.

  We believe that skillful utilization of diversified energy sources is required for society and for the further development of our country.

  There are many challenges for us to address, and solutions to strive for. The Energy Engineering Research Laboratory makes a pledge to tackle these challenges by viewing them from both short- and long-term perspectives.