Having succeeded in drawing down its interest-bearing debt, Japan Energy is now turning its focus to a broadening of the scope of its business activities. In addition to investing in fuel cells and other areas, the company will increase the number of workers in its business development department from 10 to more than 20.

In May, Japan Energy will begin nationwide leasing of LPG (liquid petroleum gas) fuel cells for homes that were developed in cooperation with Toshiba Corp. (TSE:6502). The company is also developing a fuel cell that runs on kerosene, which it aims to commercialize within three years.

Next fiscal year, Japan Energy will begin another new business inspecting contaminated soils. It will partner with companies that specialize in site inspections and soil cleanup in order to offer a full range of services in this area.

Japan Energy is also considering a new business selling cogeneration systems to medium-sized users of electric power with energy needs of around 1,000 kilowatts.