Kujukuri CCS project faces calls for suspension following drilling accidents

Environmental NGOs and local resident groups have called for the immediate suspension of trial drilling for a Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) project off the coast of Kujukuri, Chiba Prefecture. The project, managed by Shutoken CCS—a joint venture involving INPEX and Kanto Natural Gas Development—aims to transport CO2 from the Uchibo area via an 80-kilometer pipeline for undersea storage.

Since the commencement of the J-1 trial drilling in July 2026, several incidents have occurred, including a fuel hose rupture on August 22 that resulted in the leakage of approximately 37 liters of heavy oil, and an air filter fire within the drilling rig's power equipment on August 29. While the operator resumed drilling on September 6 after implementing safety measures, four organizations—including FoE Japan and the Climate Network—have submitted a formal request and a list of public questions demanding a fundamental review of the project.

The groups argue that the frequency of these accidents suggests systemic flaws in safety management and planning. They are calling for third-party verification of accident causes, full information disclosure, and a re-evaluation of the impact on the marine environment, fisheries, and local tourism. Additionally, critics have questioned the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry's approval process and expressed concerns that reliance on CCS may delay the transition away from fossil fuels.