Latest news with #post-Fukushima
The Sun
22-07-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Japan takes first step toward new nuclear reactor post-Fukushima
TOKYO: A Japanese utility announced plans to conduct a geological survey for constructing the nation's first new nuclear reactor since the Fukushima disaster in 2011. Kansai Electric President Nozomu Mori stated the survey will assess the feasibility of replacing the aging Mihama Nuclear Power Station, marking a significant shift in Japan's energy policy. Following the 2011 tsunami and subsequent meltdown at Fukushima Daiichi, Japan shut down all nuclear reactors amid public safety concerns. However, the government has since advocated for nuclear power as a key component in achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Public opinion has gradually shifted, with many reactors now back in operation. Mori emphasized Japan's limited natural resources, stating, 'It is important that nuclear power fulfils its role in the years to come.' The project, delayed since 2011, remains in early stages, with no confirmed construction timeline. Local reports estimate the new reactor could cost one trillion yen (\$6.8 billion) and take 20 years to become operational. Kansai Electric previously halted plans to replace one of Mihama's three reactors post-Fukushima. Two older reactors were retired in 2015, while the third continues operating despite nearing 50 years of service. The push for nuclear energy aligns with Japan's growing electricity demands, particularly for AI and data centres. – AFP
Japan Times
30-04-2025
- Business
- Japan Times
Japan approves first restart of a nuclear reactor in four years
Japan's atomic watchdog cleared the first nuclear restart since 2021, a shot in the arm for the government's effort to increase power generation from the energy source and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. The Nuclear Regulation Authority on Wednesday approved a preliminary report saying Hokkaido Electric Power's Tomari No. 3 reactor meets post-Fukushima safety rules, according to a live stream of the hearing. Hokkaido Electric's president said in March that he expected the unit to restart in 2027. Although the government recently approved a new energy strategy to maximize the use of nuclear power, restarts of units shuttered following the 2011 Fukushima disaster have been slow. Fewer than half of Japan's 33 operable reactors have resumed due to lengthy regulatory checks and upgrades, as well as local opposition. After a public comment period, the regulator's report will be subject to formal approval. The Tomari reactor has been shut since 2012.
Bloomberg
30-04-2025
- Politics
- Bloomberg
Japan Approves First Restart of a Nuclear Reactor in Four Years
Japan's atomic watchdog cleared the first nuclear restart since 2021, a shot in the arm for the government's effort to increase power generation from the energy source and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Japan's Nuclear Regulation Authority on Wednesday approved a preliminary report saying Hokkaido Electric Power Co.'s Tomari No. 3 reactor meets post-Fukushima safety rules, according to a live stream of the hearing. Hokkaido Electric's president said in March that he expected the unit to restart in 2027.
Japan Times
10-03-2025
- Business
- Japan Times
Japan needs collective public support to reach its nuclear goals
Nuclear power has played a pivotal role in Japan's energy journey and, in the post-Fukushima and Paris Agreement world, there is enthusiasm for its potential in strengthening energy security and reducing emissions. The government is passionately On the one hand, Japan's domestic environment is favorable to this vision as the taboo around nuclear energy prompted by the 2011 Fukushima nuclear accident is slowly eroding.
Yahoo
03-03-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Thousands evacuated as Japan's biggest fire in decades continues to burn
Japan has deployed more than 2,000 firefighters to battle the country's biggest forest fire in three decades. At least one person has died in the blaze, which has torched more than 5,200 acres around the northern Japanese city of Ofunato since Thursday, according to the Fire and Disaster Management Agency (FDMA). Although January to March is typically Ofunato's driest season, the area saw less rainfall last month than any February in more than 20 years - recording just 2.5 millimetres, compared to the usual average of 41. About 4,600 people remain under government-issued evacuation orders as the fire continues to burn. Some 2,000 have already left the area to stay with friends or relatives, and more than 1,200 have evacuated to shelters, officials said. The fires are burning in a forest area of Iwate Prefecture, which is Japan's second largest prefecture and has the country's second-lowest population density. More than 80 buildings are estimated to have been damaged so far, although FDMA noted that details are still being assessed. "Although it is inevitable that the fire will spread to some extent, we will take all possible measures to ensure there will be no impact on people's homes," Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said in parliament. Thousands of firefighters from 14 prefectures, including Tokyo, have been dispatched to fight the fires. At least 16 helicopters are also being used, with images showing the aircraft dumping water onto the smouldering hills. Like many other countries, Japan in 2024 recorded its hottest year since records began. It is difficult to know if climate change has caused or worsened specific fires, because other factors - such as changes to the way land is used - are also relevant. However, the IPCC says climate change is making the weather conditions needed for wildfires to spread more likely. Have you been evacuated? Send us your story. WATCH: Heavy snow hits Japan as wintry weather reaches peak Is the downfall of a Japanese star a turning point for women's rights? Japan to increase reliance on nuclear energy in post-Fukushima shift
