OSAKA -- While nuclear power provides about one-third of Japan's electricity, the government's goal for raising the share of alternative energy sources is a modest one -- from the current 1.2 percent to a mere 3.2 percent by 2010.

However, local efforts -- albeit on a small scale -- have been launched throughout the country to tap more environmentally friendly energy sources.

In addition to solar and wind power, biomass has been drawing attention in recent years, especially since the government started subsidizing its use. Biomass sources include wood chips, straw, waste food and manure.