At the 2025 Osaka Expo, the Japan Gas Association launched a major exhibit promoting a clean gas future through e‑methane. This synthetic gas is presented as a low-carbon alternative that fits into current infrastructure. The Gas Pavilion, supported by companies like Tokyo Gas and Osaka Gas, attracted around 500,000 visitors by late summer. The exhibit used virtual reality, animated characters, and hands-on displays to simplify complex energy concepts for all ages.
In one part of the exhibit, visitors entered a fantasy world under threat from a character called King CO.2. Guests used hydrogen beams to defeat the villain, turning carbon into e‑methane. This interactive game introduced the science behind methanation using storytelling and visuals. E‑methane is made by combining hydrogen and captured carbon dioxide. Because the CO₂ comes from existing sources, the process avoids adding new emissions. The association also highlighted that e‑methane can move through today’s pipelines without major changes.
The group envisions a clean gas future where this fuel gradually replaces fossil-based gas. They aim for e‑methane to supply up to 5 percent of city gas by 2030. By 2050, they hope to reach 50 to 90 percent. However, some experts remain cautious. Producing green hydrogen is still expensive. In Japan, costs can range from four to twelve dollars per kilogram. The association expects that figure to fall to around three dollars in key regions by 2030.
Efficiency is another concern. Current systems lose much of their input energy during conversion and transport. Today’s conversion efficiency is around 55 to 60 percent. Engineers hope future designs will reach as high as 90 percent. Critics argue that these losses make the process too inefficient to scale. They also warn that marketing efforts, including cheerful mascots and games, might distract from technical challenges. The association disagrees and says it aims to educate and engage the public honestly.
Japan remains heavily dependent on gas for power. In 2023, it made up nearly a third of electricity generation. Reducing that reliance while keeping energy secure is a key national goal. To deliver a clean gas future, gas companies must cut hydrogen costs, boost efficiency, and scale production. More research, testing, and regulatory support will also be essential. The Expo exhibit shows the industry’s clear interest in shaping Japan’s energy narrative. Whether e‑methane becomes a central solution or a stepping stone depends on future performance and public trust.
