German and Taiwanese scientists are conducting a research to learn more about a “potentially vast new energy source” in the southwestern coast of Taiwan, Channel News Asia reports.
The research teams have set out in a vessel to look for a fossil fuel called methane hydrate or “fire ice” that is believed to be on the Arctic’s seafloor.
For the 50-day exploration, researchers will board the Sonne, a 4700 ton German ship.
Taiwan’s National Science Council’s Wayne Wang said that the exploration is “the first time we may be able to physically explore for the substance.”
Past studies indicate reserves in the area of exploration could supply Taiwan with energy for up to 50 years.
