Japan Proposes Rebuilding Multiple Nuclear Reactors, First Specific Targets Since Fukushima

The Japanese government proposed on Thursday to rebuild 2 to 5 nuclear power reactors that have been slated for decommissioning by the 2040s, and 11 to 14 reactors by the 2050s. This is the first time the government has set specific numerical targets for rebuilding reactors since the 2011 Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster.

According to Kyodo News and Jiji Press, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) presented the plan at a meeting of the Nuclear Subcommittee of the Advisory Committee for Natural Resources and Energy, an advisory body to the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry.

METI's proposal is intended to secure human resources and investment for the nuclear power industry. However, while the plan is based on expectations of increased electricity demand due to the spread of artificial intelligence (AI), the global rise in nuclear power plant construction costs raises questions about whether METI can proceed with the rebuilds as planned.

Last February, the Japanese cabinet revised the "Basic Energy Plan," the country's medium- to long-term energy policy guideline, shifting nuclear policy to "maximum utilization." The plan aims to increase the share of nuclear power to 20% by fiscal year 2040, reversing the post-Fukushima policy of reducing reliance on nuclear energy.

Japan's nuclear reactors can be operated for up to 60 years, but some have already been in operation for over 50 years. To achieve the target, simply restarting existing reactors is insufficient; rebuilding or constructing new ones is necessary.

There are 11 nuclear power plants and 24 reactor units currently undergoing decommissioning in Japan. Reports indicate that Kansai Electric Power's Mihama plant in Fukui Prefecture and Kyushu Electric Power's Sendai plant in Kagoshima Prefecture are the most likely candidates for rebuilding.

The Japanese power industry has estimated to the government that there will be a supply gap of approximately 5.5 million kilowatts, equivalent to the capacity of five nuclear reactors, by the 2040s.

By proposing to rebuild up to five reactors by the 2040s, the government aims to fill this anticipated power gap by constructing next-generation nuclear power plants with higher safety standards.

According to NHK, the government is expected to finalize the plan at a related cabinet meeting this summer.