TOKYO (ANN/THE YOMIURI SHIMBUN) – The Japanese Ministry of Science and Technology has outlined plans to bolster the development of new research reactors and enhance the technological foundations for next-generation advanced reactors, aiming to achieve carbon neutrality and facilitate green transformation.
This strategic move underscores nuclear power as the primary option in the ministry’s efforts to attain these ambitious goals.
The policy direction, set to be finalised at an upcoming meeting of the Japanese Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Ministry’s nuclear science and technology committee in July, aligns closely with the government’s broader policy for green transformation approved by the Cabinet last year.
Amidst soaring energy prices due to geopolitical tensions, the outline emphasises the critical role of nuclear science and technology in bolstering energy security, technological advancement, and economic stability.
A key aspect of the ministry’s strategy involves expediting the construction of a new research reactor specialised in neutron experimentation.
This initiative responds to the pressing need for modern infrastructure, given the ongoing decommissioning of ageing research reactors across the country.
The designated site for the new research reactor will be at the Monju prototype fast breeder reactor’s location in Tsuruga, Fukui Prefecture.
Concurrently, detailed preparations, including geological surveys of potential sites, are underway to support this development.
Innovative next-generation advanced reactors, envisaged to be safer and more efficient in fuel processing than current models, are also a focal point.
These include fast reactors capable of efficiently handling plutonium and high-temperature gas reactors designed not only for nuclear power production but also hydrogen generation, supporting clean energy objectives.
Plans outlined in the policy document extend to exploring methods for fuel production using next-generation reactors for the Japan Atomic Energy Agency’s Joyo experimental fast reactor in Oarai, Ibaraki Prefecture.
The ministry aims to recommence operations at Joyo by mid-fiscal 2026.
Furthermore, the outline charts a path towards developing technology by around 2030 to integrate high-temperature gas reactors with hydrogen production facilities at the High Temperature Engineering Test Reactor in Oarai, advancing Japan’s capabilities in sustainable energy solutions.
