Japan eyes return to nuclear power

• 1 year, 7 months ago (2022-08-25)
• David Flin

Asia 846 Nuclear 639

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Japan is considering building next generation nuclear reactors and restarting idled plants. Prime minister Fumio Kishida said he had directed a government panel to look into how: “Next generation nuclear reactors could be used to help Japan achieve its goal of carbon neutrality by 2050.

Seven reactors are currently in operation, with three others offline for regular safety inspections. The others are still going through a relicensing process. It is thought that seven additional reactors could be restarted by summer 2023, including two at Kashiwazaki-Kariwa, operated by TEPCO .

This change of direction, which could include extending the life of existing reactors, has highlighted Japan’s struggle to secure stable energy supplies as a result of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Kishida said: “Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has vastly transformed the world’s energy landscape. Japan needs to bear in mind potential crisis scenarios.”