Osaka Gas begins operations at new Himeji plant in Japan
Osaka Gas has commenced commercial operations at the No.1 unit of its new 1.25GW Himeji gas-fired power plant in western Japan, reportedReuters.
This marks the start of expanded domestic thermal power generation capacity for Osaka Gas, with the Himeji facility utilising a gas turbine combined-cycle system.
Go deeper with GlobalData
Discover B2B Marketing That Performs
Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.
The Himeji power station comprises two units, each with a capacity of 622.6MW. According to Osaka Gas, the No.2 unit is scheduled to begin operations in May.
Once both units come online, the company’s domestic thermal power generation capacity is expected to increase from approximately 2GW to around 3.2GW.
The facility uses natural gas as fuel and is designed to meet rising electricity demand as data centres and AI-driven applications require more energy.
Japan’s Strategic Energy Plan, which was approved in February 2025, identifies natural gas as a realistic transition fuel towards achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.
By GlobalDataThe country has been increasing new gas-fired capacity through auctions, mainly to replace ageing coal plants, according to the Organisation for Cross-regional Coordination of Transmission Operators, Japan.
In April 2025, ArcLight Capital Partners reached a definitive purchase agreement with Osaka Gas USA and Kyuden International Americas to acquire their interests in Kleen Energy Systems, a 620MW natural gas-fired power generation asset in New England, US.
ArcLight stated that the acquisition aligned with its strategy to address increasing power demand driven by AI and electrification trends.
The company noted that AI-driven data centre development and increased electrification, such as electric vehicle adoption, was driving demand for sustainable and affordable power solutions.
Sign up for our daily news round-up!
Give your business an edge with our leading industry insights.
Power Technology Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed
Nominations are now closed for the Power Technology Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact.
Excellence in Action
Recognised with three 2025 Power Technology Excellence Awards, Hover Energy is at the forefront of intelligent microgrids and distributed renewables. Explore how its AI-enabled Microgrid Management System™, strategic partnerships and networked microgrids are rebuilding the grid from the ground up for a more flexible, resilient energy future.
Content Original Link:
" target="_blank">
