The Future Development Path of Japan's Nuclear Energy Technology (I)
From：
Zhonglin International Group Date：08-26 682 Belong to：Industry Related
On August 20, 2024, the Japanese government released the "Policy Direction for Future Atomic Energy Science and Technology". This report outlines Japan's future strategy in the field of nuclear energy technology innovation to address the challenges of global energy transition and achieve carbon neutrality goals. This article will comprehensively interpret the background, current situation, future development direction, and international cooperation strategy of Japan's nuclear energy technology.
I. Background and situation of nuclear energy technology development
1. Current situation and background of nuclear power development in Japan
The development of nuclear energy in Japan began in the 1950s, when nuclear energy was seen as a key technology for economic recovery and industrial development. The Japanese government actively introduces nuclear energy technology and rapidly promotes the construction of nuclear power plants through cooperation between the government and enterprises. In the 1970s and 1980s, with the outbreak of the global oil crisis, the importance of nuclear energy further increased, and nuclear power became a core component of Japan's energy structure. By 2010, nuclear energy accounted for nearly 30% of Japan's total electricity supply.
On March 11, 2011, the Great East Japan Earthquake triggered a major nuclear accident at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant. This accident seriously affected the public's trust in nuclear energy and also led to a significant shift in Japan's nuclear energy policy. The accident resulted in 48 out of 54 nuclear reactors in Japan being shut down, and 6 were directly scrapped due to the accident. The direct economic losses of the accident are expected to exceed 20 trillion yen and involve various aspects such as waste furnaces, pollution treatment, and compensation.
However, with the intensification of global energy security issues and Japan's commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, nuclear energy is once again seen as an indispensable source of energy. In order to achieve the goal of nuclear power generation accounting for 20-22% by 2030, Japan issued a series of documents and policies in February and April 2023, including the "Basic Guidelines for Achieving GX (Green Transformation)", "Basic Perspectives on Nuclear Energy Utilization", and "Future Nuclear Energy Policy Direction and Action Guidelines", which determined the basic guidelines for Japan's nuclear energy revitalization policy. The Japanese government plans to restart existing nuclear power plants and develop and construct new nuclear energy facilities through technological innovation.
2. New situation of global nuclear energy technology development
On a global scale, the development trend of nuclear energy technology is moving towards greater efficiency, safety, and sustainability. According to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), as of January 2024, there are 413 nuclear power reactors in operation worldwide, with a total installed capacity of 371510 megawatts. Nuclear power accounts for about 10% of the world's total electricity generation. Although the pace of global nuclear energy development has slowed down after the Fukushima accident, with the advancement of new generation nuclear reactor technology, multiple countries are reassessing and strengthening their investment in nuclear energy.
The International Energy Agency's (IEA) 2050 Net Zero Emissions Roadmap states that to achieve the global net zero emissions goal, the installed capacity of nuclear power generation needs to increase from approximately 394 gigawatts in 2020 to 812 gigawatts by 2050, which is almost twice the current level. The achievement of this goal relies on the development of new generation nuclear energy technologies, such as small modular reactors (SMRs) and fast neutron breeder reactors (FBRs). These technologies are considered to have higher security, economy, and flexibility, which can help achieve large-scale zero carbon energy supply.
In the 1980s and 1990s, Japan held an important position in the global nuclear energy technology field. Its nuclear power plant design and construction technology, nuclear fuel cycle technology, and reactor safety technology are all at the forefront of the world. However, due to the impact of the Fukushima accident, Japan's international influence in the field of nuclear energy technology has declined over the past decade. This is not only reflected in the reduction of the number of nuclear power plant constructions, but also in the changing status of academic research and international cooperation related to nuclear energy. According to data from the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), Japan ranked fifth globally in the number of academic papers in the field of "nuclear energy and engineering" from 1995 to 2005. However, by 2015-2025, this ranking has dropped to eleventh place.
Overall, despite facing multiple challenges, nuclear energy remains a key technology for Japan to achieve its energy security and climate goals. With the development of nuclear energy technology both domestically and internationally, Japan must restore and enhance its competitiveness in the global nuclear energy field through policy support and technological innovation.
II. Basic Principles of Nuclear Energy Technology Innovation in Japan
When facing the future development of nuclear energy, the Japanese government has established three basic principles to ensure the safe development and continuous innovation of nuclear energy technology. These basic principles aim to balance the progress of nuclear energy technology with society's concern for nuclear energy safety and sustainability.
1. Safety first
Safety first "is the primary principle for the development of nuclear energy technology in Japan. The establishment of this principle is not only a reflection on the lessons learned from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident, but also the foundation for ensuring the future development of nuclear energy. On the one hand, the Japanese government has conducted a comprehensive safety review of all operating nuclear power plants and introduced stricter safety standards. The new standards require nuclear power plants to have higher seismic, flood, and fire resistance capabilities, especially in preventing extreme natural disasters such as earthquakes and tsunamis. All nuclear power plants must meet these standards in order to obtain permission to restart. On the other hand, in order to ensure the transparency and credibility of nuclear energy operations, Japan has established independent nuclear regulatory agencies, such as the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRA), responsible for supervising the safe operation of nuclear power plants. Every year, all nuclear power plant operators must submit detailed safety assessment reports and undergo independent third-party review. The Japanese government also plans to invest approximately 5 trillion yen in the safety upgrades and technological innovations of nuclear energy facilities over the next decade to ensure their safe operation even in extreme situations.
2. Technological innovation and international competitiveness
Technological innovation is the key for Japan to maintain its competitiveness in the global nuclear energy technology field. In the 1980s and 1990s, Japan was at the forefront of global nuclear energy technology research and development. However, after the Fukushima accident, Japan's international competitiveness in this field has declined. In order to regain its leading position in the global nuclear energy technology field, the Japanese government proposed an ambitious plan in 2023 to invest over 1 trillion yen in research and development of nuclear energy technology over the next decade. The key areas include new generation reactors (such as high-temperature gas cooled reactors and fast neutron breeder reactors), nuclear fuel cycle technology, and radioactive waste disposal technology. These technological breakthroughs will provide new impetus for the development of nuclear energy technology in Japan. In terms of academic research, the Japanese government plans to promote technological breakthroughs in the field of nuclear energy by increasing research funding, strengthening international cooperation, and supporting interdisciplinary research. The government plans to increase research funding by approximately 200 billion yen annually to enhance Japan's research capabilities and international influence in this field.
3. Public participation and trust rebuilding
After the Fukushima accident, public trust in nuclear energy has significantly decreased, and the development of nuclear energy is facing enormous social pressure. In order to rebuild public trust in nuclear energy, the Japanese government recognizes that this goal must be achieved through transparent policy-making and broad public participation.
According to a survey by the Japanese government, about 70% of the Japanese public held a negative attitude towards nuclear energy in 2019, believing that it poses significant safety risks that cannot be ignored. In order to reverse this situation, the government launched the "Nuclear Energy Public Communication Program" in 2020, aimed at enhancing society's understanding and support for nuclear energy technology through open and transparent policy discussions, public consultations, and information dissemination.
This plan includes regularly holding national forums on nuclear energy technology, inviting experts, government officials, and the general public to participate in discussions on the latest developments and future directions of nuclear energy technology. The government has also strengthened open day activities for nuclear energy facilities, giving the public the opportunity to visit nuclear power plants and personally understand the operating mechanisms and safety measures of nuclear energy. In addition, the government also plans to increase the education content of nuclear energy knowledge in primary and secondary schools through the education system, and cultivate the next generation's scientific understanding of nuclear energy technology.
In the policy-making process, the government has also introduced public participation mechanisms to ensure that the formulation of nuclear energy policies reflects public opinions and concerns. For example, in the development process of the new generation innovation stack, the government collected over 100000 public opinions through public hearings and online surveys, and incorporated valuable suggestions into policy-making. Through these measures, the Japanese government hopes to gradually rebuild public trust in nuclear energy, making the development of nuclear technology more in line with social expectations, and providing strong support for achieving energy security and carbon neutrality goals.
Overall, the basic principles of Japan's nuclear energy technology innovation are centered on safety, driven by technological innovation, and based on public trust. These principles not only reflect Japan's profound reflection on the development of nuclear energy, but also demonstrate its determination to maintain international competitiveness in the new era. Through strict safety standards, continuous technological investment, and extensive public participation, Japan will strive to continue playing an important role in the global nuclear energy technology field.
III. Five key directions for future nuclear energy technology innovation
The Japanese government has proposed five key directions for nuclear energy technology innovation in this report to ensure the safety, sustainability, and innovation capabilities of nuclear energy technology. These measures aim to promote the comprehensive development of nuclear energy technology through the construction and management of nuclear energy facilities, the promotion of technological innovation, and the strengthening of international cooperation.
1. Develop a new experimental research reactor
The Japanese government plans to develop new research reactors based on existing research facilities to support basic research and innovative development of nuclear energy technology. These research reactors will not only be used for materials science, nuclear fuel development, and radioactive isotope production, but will also support the validation and safety testing of new reactor designs.
The existing nuclear research facilities in Japan are severely aging, and some research reactors are approaching the end of their design life, such as the Kyoto University Research Reactor (KUR), which is scheduled to cease operation before May 2026. In order to fill the gap in research facilities and support the development of new technologies, Japan plans to develop a new experimental research reactor, with a total investment of approximately 150 billion yen. Japan plans to build a new research reactor on the site of the Manjusri site to meet future scientific research needs. In 2023, the Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA) selected Mitsubishi Heavy Industries as the main contractor for the new research reactor, with plans to complete construction in 2026 and begin trial operation in 2027.
2. Develop a new generation of reactors and enhance safety
High temperature gas cooled reactor (HTGR) and fast neutron breeder reactor (FBR) are the key directions of Japan's new generation reactor technology. These new reactors have inherent safety and high efficiency output, and will become an important component of Japan's carbon neutrality strategy.
High temperature gas cooled reactor is a type of high-temperature and efficient reactor, designed to operate safely at higher temperatures. The operating temperature of HTGR can reach over 900 degrees Celsius, which gives it unique advantages in power generation efficiency, industrial thermal applications, and hydrogen production. In terms of safety, the ceramic coated granular fuel used in HTGR can effectively seal radioactive materials at high temperatures of 1600 degrees Celsius, and this technology has been validated in HTTR experiments. HTTR reached criticality in 2010, was shut down in 2011, and restarted in 2021. It has operated for over 71000 hours to date, verifying the stability and safety of high-temperature gas cooled reactors under high temperature conditions. Japan plans to further develop and commercialize high-temperature gas cooled reactor technology based on the HTTR experimental reactor at the Daiwashi Research and Development Center, and is expected to achieve commercialization by 2030.
The fast neutron multiplication furnace utilizes fast neutron multiplication plutonium fuel, which not only efficiently utilizes nuclear fuel but also reduces the generation of nuclear waste. The "Changyang" experimental reactor and the retired "Manjusri" breeder reactor in Japan have provided valuable data and experience for the research of FBR technology. The government plans to complete a new round of security upgrades for "Changyang" before 2026 and restart it in 2027. At that time, "Changyang" will become the only operational high-speed neutron irradiation reactor in the world, expected to provide experimental services to multiple countries including France and the United States, further consolidating Japan's important position in international nuclear energy technology research and development.
3. Strengthen the disposal and post-treatment technology of waste from nuclear energy facilities
The disposal of waste from nuclear energy facilities is a key challenge for the sustainable development of nuclear energy. Japan has multiple nuclear energy related facilities that have entered the retirement stage, and the safety management and waste disposal of these facilities require significant funding and technical support. To ensure the safe retirement of nuclear energy facilities and effective management of nuclear waste, Japan has developed a detailed waste disposal plan covering 79 facilities, estimated to take about 70 years, with a total cost estimated at 1.9 trillion yen.
The nuclear fuel cycle and nuclear waste disposal are key links in ensuring the sustainable development of nuclear energy. In terms of nuclear fuel cycle, Japan plans to achieve complete reuse of plutonium fuel by 2030 and establish a complete nuclear fuel cycle system domestically. This system will cover the entire process from nuclear fuel manufacturing to waste disposal after use, not only improving resource utilization efficiency, but also greatly reducing the amount of nuclear waste generated.
According to the estimation of the Japanese government, as of 2023, the total amount of high-level radioactive waste stored in Japan has reached 672000 barrels (200L) equivalent, and it continues to increase annually, with a processing cost of up to 290 billion yen. Japan plans to reduce the volume of high-level radioactive waste by over 60% and significantly decrease its radioactive intensity by introducing advanced processing technologies. This plan is expected to be gradually implemented around 2030 and is expected to achieve safe disposal of high-level radioactive waste by 2050.
4. Strengthening nuclear energy technology research and talent cultivation
The continuous innovation of nuclear energy technology relies on high-level research and development (R&D) and the cultivation of professional talents. To achieve this goal, Japan plans to increase investment in nuclear energy technology research and education over the next decade.
In terms of scientific research investment, the government will increase research funding in the field of nuclear energy, cooperate with domestic and foreign universities and research institutions, establish joint research projects on nuclear energy technology, and support the research and application of new technologies. The key areas include next-generation reactors, nuclear fuel cycle technology, and radioactive waste disposal technology. Japan hopes to become one of the global centers for nuclear energy technology innovation in the next decade.
In terms of talent cultivation, JAEA will collaborate with universities and research institutions both domestically and internationally to create joint programs for nuclear energy technology education and research. For example, JAEA plans to collaborate with top universities such as Kyoto University and the University of Tokyo to establish doctoral programs in nuclear science and engineering, and collaborate with research projects in the United States, Europe, and other Asian countries to introduce and cultivate international nuclear technology talents. The goal is to train at least 100 internationally competitive nuclear technology experts annually. These talents will become the backbone of Japan's nuclear energy technology innovation and development.
5. Follow up handling of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident
The long-term impact of the Fukushima nuclear power plant accident is still ongoing, and addressing the legacy issues of the accident and restoring public trust in nuclear energy are the core issues of Japan's nuclear energy policy. The waste disposal and environmental remediation work after the accident involves significant financial and technological investment.
The Japanese government has formulated a new five-year plan in 2022, aiming to complete the initial treatment of waste from the Fukushima nuclear power plant by 2027 and achieve basic environmental restoration in the region by 2030. The government plans to gradually address the legacy issues of the Fukushima nuclear accident through continuous investment and international cooperation.
The government also plans to establish a globally leading nuclear emergency response center by 2025 to ensure prompt and effective response in the event of any future nuclear accidents. These measures aim to gradually address the legacy issues of the Fukushima nuclear accident, while enhancing Japan's capabilities in nuclear emergency response and environmental remediation.
In summary, these five key measures demonstrate Japan's long-term strategic goals and specific action plans in the field of nuclear energy technology. By developing new experimental research reactors, advancing next-generation innovative reactor technologies, strengthening waste management and nuclear energy facility management, increasing investment in scientific research and talent development, and addressing the aftermath of the Fukushima accident, Japan hopes to maintain its global competitiveness in nuclear energy technology while contributing to global energy security and environmental protection. Through these measures, Japan is not only committed to achieving domestic energy self-sufficiency and carbon neutrality goals, but also hopes to promote global progress in nuclear energy technology through technology exports and international cooperation. (To be continued)
I. Background and situation of nuclear energy technology development
1. Current situation and background of nuclear power development in Japan
The development of nuclear energy in Japan began in the 1950s, when nuclear energy was seen as a key technology for economic recovery and industrial development. The Japanese government actively introduces nuclear energy technology and rapidly promotes the construction of nuclear power plants through cooperation between the government and enterprises. In the 1970s and 1980s, with the outbreak of the global oil crisis, the importance of nuclear energy further increased, and nuclear power became a core component of Japan's energy structure. By 2010, nuclear energy accounted for nearly 30% of Japan's total electricity supply.
On March 11, 2011, the Great East Japan Earthquake triggered a major nuclear accident at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant. This accident seriously affected the public's trust in nuclear energy and also led to a significant shift in Japan's nuclear energy policy. The accident resulted in 48 out of 54 nuclear reactors in Japan being shut down, and 6 were directly scrapped due to the accident. The direct economic losses of the accident are expected to exceed 20 trillion yen and involve various aspects such as waste furnaces, pollution treatment, and compensation.
However, with the intensification of global energy security issues and Japan's commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, nuclear energy is once again seen as an indispensable source of energy. In order to achieve the goal of nuclear power generation accounting for 20-22% by 2030, Japan issued a series of documents and policies in February and April 2023, including the "Basic Guidelines for Achieving GX (Green Transformation)", "Basic Perspectives on Nuclear Energy Utilization", and "Future Nuclear Energy Policy Direction and Action Guidelines", which determined the basic guidelines for Japan's nuclear energy revitalization policy. The Japanese government plans to restart existing nuclear power plants and develop and construct new nuclear energy facilities through technological innovation.
2. New situation of global nuclear energy technology development
On a global scale, the development trend of nuclear energy technology is moving towards greater efficiency, safety, and sustainability. According to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), as of January 2024, there are 413 nuclear power reactors in operation worldwide, with a total installed capacity of 371510 megawatts. Nuclear power accounts for about 10% of the world's total electricity generation. Although the pace of global nuclear energy development has slowed down after the Fukushima accident, with the advancement of new generation nuclear reactor technology, multiple countries are reassessing and strengthening their investment in nuclear energy.
The International Energy Agency's (IEA) 2050 Net Zero Emissions Roadmap states that to achieve the global net zero emissions goal, the installed capacity of nuclear power generation needs to increase from approximately 394 gigawatts in 2020 to 812 gigawatts by 2050, which is almost twice the current level. The achievement of this goal relies on the development of new generation nuclear energy technologies, such as small modular reactors (SMRs) and fast neutron breeder reactors (FBRs). These technologies are considered to have higher security, economy, and flexibility, which can help achieve large-scale zero carbon energy supply.
In the 1980s and 1990s, Japan held an important position in the global nuclear energy technology field. Its nuclear power plant design and construction technology, nuclear fuel cycle technology, and reactor safety technology are all at the forefront of the world. However, due to the impact of the Fukushima accident, Japan's international influence in the field of nuclear energy technology has declined over the past decade. This is not only reflected in the reduction of the number of nuclear power plant constructions, but also in the changing status of academic research and international cooperation related to nuclear energy. According to data from the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), Japan ranked fifth globally in the number of academic papers in the field of "nuclear energy and engineering" from 1995 to 2005. However, by 2015-2025, this ranking has dropped to eleventh place.
Overall, despite facing multiple challenges, nuclear energy remains a key technology for Japan to achieve its energy security and climate goals. With the development of nuclear energy technology both domestically and internationally, Japan must restore and enhance its competitiveness in the global nuclear energy field through policy support and technological innovation.
II. Basic Principles of Nuclear Energy Technology Innovation in Japan
When facing the future development of nuclear energy, the Japanese government has established three basic principles to ensure the safe development and continuous innovation of nuclear energy technology. These basic principles aim to balance the progress of nuclear energy technology with society's concern for nuclear energy safety and sustainability.
1. Safety first
Safety first "is the primary principle for the development of nuclear energy technology in Japan. The establishment of this principle is not only a reflection on the lessons learned from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident, but also the foundation for ensuring the future development of nuclear energy. On the one hand, the Japanese government has conducted a comprehensive safety review of all operating nuclear power plants and introduced stricter safety standards. The new standards require nuclear power plants to have higher seismic, flood, and fire resistance capabilities, especially in preventing extreme natural disasters such as earthquakes and tsunamis. All nuclear power plants must meet these standards in order to obtain permission to restart. On the other hand, in order to ensure the transparency and credibility of nuclear energy operations, Japan has established independent nuclear regulatory agencies, such as the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRA), responsible for supervising the safe operation of nuclear power plants. Every year, all nuclear power plant operators must submit detailed safety assessment reports and undergo independent third-party review. The Japanese government also plans to invest approximately 5 trillion yen in the safety upgrades and technological innovations of nuclear energy facilities over the next decade to ensure their safe operation even in extreme situations.
2. Technological innovation and international competitiveness
Technological innovation is the key for Japan to maintain its competitiveness in the global nuclear energy technology field. In the 1980s and 1990s, Japan was at the forefront of global nuclear energy technology research and development. However, after the Fukushima accident, Japan's international competitiveness in this field has declined. In order to regain its leading position in the global nuclear energy technology field, the Japanese government proposed an ambitious plan in 2023 to invest over 1 trillion yen in research and development of nuclear energy technology over the next decade. The key areas include new generation reactors (such as high-temperature gas cooled reactors and fast neutron breeder reactors), nuclear fuel cycle technology, and radioactive waste disposal technology. These technological breakthroughs will provide new impetus for the development of nuclear energy technology in Japan. In terms of academic research, the Japanese government plans to promote technological breakthroughs in the field of nuclear energy by increasing research funding, strengthening international cooperation, and supporting interdisciplinary research. The government plans to increase research funding by approximately 200 billion yen annually to enhance Japan's research capabilities and international influence in this field.
3. Public participation and trust rebuilding
After the Fukushima accident, public trust in nuclear energy has significantly decreased, and the development of nuclear energy is facing enormous social pressure. In order to rebuild public trust in nuclear energy, the Japanese government recognizes that this goal must be achieved through transparent policy-making and broad public participation.
According to a survey by the Japanese government, about 70% of the Japanese public held a negative attitude towards nuclear energy in 2019, believing that it poses significant safety risks that cannot be ignored. In order to reverse this situation, the government launched the "Nuclear Energy Public Communication Program" in 2020, aimed at enhancing society's understanding and support for nuclear energy technology through open and transparent policy discussions, public consultations, and information dissemination.
This plan includes regularly holding national forums on nuclear energy technology, inviting experts, government officials, and the general public to participate in discussions on the latest developments and future directions of nuclear energy technology. The government has also strengthened open day activities for nuclear energy facilities, giving the public the opportunity to visit nuclear power plants and personally understand the operating mechanisms and safety measures of nuclear energy. In addition, the government also plans to increase the education content of nuclear energy knowledge in primary and secondary schools through the education system, and cultivate the next generation's scientific understanding of nuclear energy technology.
In the policy-making process, the government has also introduced public participation mechanisms to ensure that the formulation of nuclear energy policies reflects public opinions and concerns. For example, in the development process of the new generation innovation stack, the government collected over 100000 public opinions through public hearings and online surveys, and incorporated valuable suggestions into policy-making. Through these measures, the Japanese government hopes to gradually rebuild public trust in nuclear energy, making the development of nuclear technology more in line with social expectations, and providing strong support for achieving energy security and carbon neutrality goals.
Overall, the basic principles of Japan's nuclear energy technology innovation are centered on safety, driven by technological innovation, and based on public trust. These principles not only reflect Japan's profound reflection on the development of nuclear energy, but also demonstrate its determination to maintain international competitiveness in the new era. Through strict safety standards, continuous technological investment, and extensive public participation, Japan will strive to continue playing an important role in the global nuclear energy technology field.
III. Five key directions for future nuclear energy technology innovation
The Japanese government has proposed five key directions for nuclear energy technology innovation in this report to ensure the safety, sustainability, and innovation capabilities of nuclear energy technology. These measures aim to promote the comprehensive development of nuclear energy technology through the construction and management of nuclear energy facilities, the promotion of technological innovation, and the strengthening of international cooperation.
1. Develop a new experimental research reactor
The Japanese government plans to develop new research reactors based on existing research facilities to support basic research and innovative development of nuclear energy technology. These research reactors will not only be used for materials science, nuclear fuel development, and radioactive isotope production, but will also support the validation and safety testing of new reactor designs.
The existing nuclear research facilities in Japan are severely aging, and some research reactors are approaching the end of their design life, such as the Kyoto University Research Reactor (KUR), which is scheduled to cease operation before May 2026. In order to fill the gap in research facilities and support the development of new technologies, Japan plans to develop a new experimental research reactor, with a total investment of approximately 150 billion yen. Japan plans to build a new research reactor on the site of the Manjusri site to meet future scientific research needs. In 2023, the Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA) selected Mitsubishi Heavy Industries as the main contractor for the new research reactor, with plans to complete construction in 2026 and begin trial operation in 2027.
2. Develop a new generation of reactors and enhance safety
High temperature gas cooled reactor (HTGR) and fast neutron breeder reactor (FBR) are the key directions of Japan's new generation reactor technology. These new reactors have inherent safety and high efficiency output, and will become an important component of Japan's carbon neutrality strategy.
High temperature gas cooled reactor is a type of high-temperature and efficient reactor, designed to operate safely at higher temperatures. The operating temperature of HTGR can reach over 900 degrees Celsius, which gives it unique advantages in power generation efficiency, industrial thermal applications, and hydrogen production. In terms of safety, the ceramic coated granular fuel used in HTGR can effectively seal radioactive materials at high temperatures of 1600 degrees Celsius, and this technology has been validated in HTTR experiments. HTTR reached criticality in 2010, was shut down in 2011, and restarted in 2021. It has operated for over 71000 hours to date, verifying the stability and safety of high-temperature gas cooled reactors under high temperature conditions. Japan plans to further develop and commercialize high-temperature gas cooled reactor technology based on the HTTR experimental reactor at the Daiwashi Research and Development Center, and is expected to achieve commercialization by 2030.
The fast neutron multiplication furnace utilizes fast neutron multiplication plutonium fuel, which not only efficiently utilizes nuclear fuel but also reduces the generation of nuclear waste. The "Changyang" experimental reactor and the retired "Manjusri" breeder reactor in Japan have provided valuable data and experience for the research of FBR technology. The government plans to complete a new round of security upgrades for "Changyang" before 2026 and restart it in 2027. At that time, "Changyang" will become the only operational high-speed neutron irradiation reactor in the world, expected to provide experimental services to multiple countries including France and the United States, further consolidating Japan's important position in international nuclear energy technology research and development.
3. Strengthen the disposal and post-treatment technology of waste from nuclear energy facilities
The disposal of waste from nuclear energy facilities is a key challenge for the sustainable development of nuclear energy. Japan has multiple nuclear energy related facilities that have entered the retirement stage, and the safety management and waste disposal of these facilities require significant funding and technical support. To ensure the safe retirement of nuclear energy facilities and effective management of nuclear waste, Japan has developed a detailed waste disposal plan covering 79 facilities, estimated to take about 70 years, with a total cost estimated at 1.9 trillion yen.
The nuclear fuel cycle and nuclear waste disposal are key links in ensuring the sustainable development of nuclear energy. In terms of nuclear fuel cycle, Japan plans to achieve complete reuse of plutonium fuel by 2030 and establish a complete nuclear fuel cycle system domestically. This system will cover the entire process from nuclear fuel manufacturing to waste disposal after use, not only improving resource utilization efficiency, but also greatly reducing the amount of nuclear waste generated.
According to the estimation of the Japanese government, as of 2023, the total amount of high-level radioactive waste stored in Japan has reached 672000 barrels (200L) equivalent, and it continues to increase annually, with a processing cost of up to 290 billion yen. Japan plans to reduce the volume of high-level radioactive waste by over 60% and significantly decrease its radioactive intensity by introducing advanced processing technologies. This plan is expected to be gradually implemented around 2030 and is expected to achieve safe disposal of high-level radioactive waste by 2050.
4. Strengthening nuclear energy technology research and talent cultivation
The continuous innovation of nuclear energy technology relies on high-level research and development (R&D) and the cultivation of professional talents. To achieve this goal, Japan plans to increase investment in nuclear energy technology research and education over the next decade.
In terms of scientific research investment, the government will increase research funding in the field of nuclear energy, cooperate with domestic and foreign universities and research institutions, establish joint research projects on nuclear energy technology, and support the research and application of new technologies. The key areas include next-generation reactors, nuclear fuel cycle technology, and radioactive waste disposal technology. Japan hopes to become one of the global centers for nuclear energy technology innovation in the next decade.
In terms of talent cultivation, JAEA will collaborate with universities and research institutions both domestically and internationally to create joint programs for nuclear energy technology education and research. For example, JAEA plans to collaborate with top universities such as Kyoto University and the University of Tokyo to establish doctoral programs in nuclear science and engineering, and collaborate with research projects in the United States, Europe, and other Asian countries to introduce and cultivate international nuclear technology talents. The goal is to train at least 100 internationally competitive nuclear technology experts annually. These talents will become the backbone of Japan's nuclear energy technology innovation and development.
5. Follow up handling of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident
The long-term impact of the Fukushima nuclear power plant accident is still ongoing, and addressing the legacy issues of the accident and restoring public trust in nuclear energy are the core issues of Japan's nuclear energy policy. The waste disposal and environmental remediation work after the accident involves significant financial and technological investment.
The Japanese government has formulated a new five-year plan in 2022, aiming to complete the initial treatment of waste from the Fukushima nuclear power plant by 2027 and achieve basic environmental restoration in the region by 2030. The government plans to gradually address the legacy issues of the Fukushima nuclear accident through continuous investment and international cooperation.
The government also plans to establish a globally leading nuclear emergency response center by 2025 to ensure prompt and effective response in the event of any future nuclear accidents. These measures aim to gradually address the legacy issues of the Fukushima nuclear accident, while enhancing Japan's capabilities in nuclear emergency response and environmental remediation.
In summary, these five key measures demonstrate Japan's long-term strategic goals and specific action plans in the field of nuclear energy technology. By developing new experimental research reactors, advancing next-generation innovative reactor technologies, strengthening waste management and nuclear energy facility management, increasing investment in scientific research and talent development, and addressing the aftermath of the Fukushima accident, Japan hopes to maintain its global competitiveness in nuclear energy technology while contributing to global energy security and environmental protection. Through these measures, Japan is not only committed to achieving domestic energy self-sufficiency and carbon neutrality goals, but also hopes to promote global progress in nuclear energy technology through technology exports and international cooperation. (To be continued)
