Japan is planning the first new nuclear reactor since Fukushima

Japan is planning the first new nuclear reactor since Fukushima

The Kansai Electric Power Company has decided to carry out surveys for the construction of a new nuclear reactor at their Mihama nuclear power plant in the Fukui Prefecture, in the west of Japan. This happens as part of the decommissioning of the existing system and thus represents the first concrete step of the construction of a new nuclear reactor since the devastating earthquake disaster in the east of Japan in 2011, which led to a meltdown in the Fukushima plant by Tokyo Electric Power and had its operation set up.

Japan's dependence on fossil fuels

Japan is still strongly dependent on imports of fossil fuels. The government wants nuclear energy to play a larger role in the country's energy security. Kansai Electric is currently the largest operator of nuclear power plants in Japan, measured by the number of active reactors.

comprehensive examinations planned

The announced surveys focus on topographical and geological studies and also include dialogue with local citizens, according to the company.

technological progress for new reactors

"In view of costs, operational efficiency and compliance with new regulations, we keep the SRZ-1200, an advanced light water reactor for the most realistic option," explained Hiroaki Kitaura, a senior manager of the nuclear power department of Kansai, in a press conference.

collaboration with Mitsubishi

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries is working with four supply companies, including Kansai Electric and Hokkaido Electric Power, on the basic design of the new reactor type. Although Kansai Electric made no estimate of the construction costs, Kitaura explained that the financing should be applied by bonds, loans and other suitable means. There is currently no increase in equal capital.

Review of previous systems

The company has been analyzing a successor to Mihama No. 1 reactor since November 2010, but hired the studies after the 2011 disaster. In 2015, it was decided to shut down reactors No. 1 and No. 2 in Mihama.

The need for new reactors

"In view of the expected significant losses in nuclear energy supply, it is necessary to start creating next generation reactors. This should be done on the prerequisite that security is guaranteed and local understanding is obtained in order to secure low-carbon energy supply," said the Japanese Minister of Economics, Trade and Industry, Yoji Muto, on Tuesday.

Current situation of nuclear power in Japan

currently operates Japan over a dozen reactors with a total output of around 12 gigawatts. Many of these reactors are in a re-licensing process to meet the stricter security standards introduced according to the Fukushima accident. Before the catastrophe in 2011, Japan ran a total of 54 reactors.