Kansai Electric Power Co Inc (9503.T) is set to resume feasibility surveys at its Mihama nuclear power station in western Japan this November, marking Japan’s first significant move towards constructing a new reactor since the Fukushima disaster. The surveys, initially announced in July, will assess the viability of building a successor unit at the Mihama site, which was previously halted following the 2011 catastrophe. The comprehensive studies, expected to continue until around 2030, will include geological investigations both inside and outside the plant premises to identify suitable locations, followed by detailed assessments of topography and ground conditions. Kansai Electric emphasized that the findings will be evaluated alongside advancements in light-water reactor technology, regulatory policies, and the overall business environment before making a final decision on the new unit. The initial surveys for a replacement reactor at Mihama began in late 2010 but were suspended after the Fukushima incident. The renewed efforts will adhere to stricter safety regulations implemented post-disaster. Currently, only the No. 3 unit at Mihama remains operational, as the No. 1 and No. 2 units are being decommissioned. Since 2022, Kansai Electric has been collaborating with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (7011.T) and other utilities, including Kyushu Electric Power (9508.T), Shikoku Electric Power (9507.T), and Hokkaido Electric Power (9509.T), to develop a next-generation 1.2-gigawatt advanced light-water reactor, known as ‘SRZ-1200.’ This consortium aims to enhance nuclear technology while ensuring compliance with modern safety standards.
Japan’s Kansai Electric to resume surveys for nuclear reactor replacement at Mihama halted by Fukushima disaster
