Japan to return to new nuclear power

• 1 year, 11 months ago (2022-12-19)
• David Flin

Asia 892 Nuclear 660

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Japan has confirmed a major policy shift on nuclear power, announcing that it will seek to replace decommissioned nuclear plants and extend the lifespan of others.

The change in policy follows Prime Minister Fumio Kishida instructing the industry ministry to develop next generation reactors, and to set up a policy plan to widen use of nuclear energy by the end of 2022.

Under a strategic energy plan approved by the Japanese Cabinet last year, deciding to reduce the country’s dependence on nuclear power as much as possible. The new policy, approved on 16 December, will allow existing nuclear reactors operate beyond the current limit of 60 years as well as support the development of new ones. A spokesperson for the industry ministry said that further details will be discussed in parliament in 2023.

In the financial year to March 2021, nuclear accounted for 3.9 per cent of Japan’s power mix. The Government is aiming to boost this to 22 per cent by 2030.