Japan's nuclear watchdog has formally disqualified a reactor in the country's north-central region for a restart, marking the first rejection under reinforced safety standards post the 2011 Fukushima disaster. The decision, announced by the Nuclear Regulation Authority, deems the Tsuruga No. 2 reactor 'unfit' due to unresolved safety risks related to potential active faults beneath it.
The reactor, operated by Japan Atomic Power Co., failed to address these safety concerns despite more than eight years of safety reviews. The NRA chairperson emphasized the strict examination that led to the disqualification and urged the operator to take the outcome seriously.
This setback is significant for Japan's nuclear energy plans as the government aims to accelerate reactor restarts to enhance nuclear power generation. The rejection of Tsuruga No. 2, based on lessons from the Fukushima Daiichi meltdown, signals a blow to Japan Atomic Power's hopes for a restart.
The safety panel's findings revealed the presence of active faults near the reactor, rendering it inoperable. While the NRA is not mandating immediate decommissioning, the operator must address the faults issue and implement comprehensive safety measures for the plant if it chooses to reapply for a restart.
Japan's commitment to nuclear energy as part of its carbon neutrality goals faces scrutiny following recent seismic events, including a deadly earthquake in 2024 that highlighted concerns over nuclear facility safety and evacuation plans.
Building nuclear facilities above active faults is prohibited in earthquake-prone Japan, underscoring the importance of stringent safety protocols. The disqualification of Tsuruga No. 2 underscores the necessity for operators to adhere to rigorous safety standards to ensure the secure operation of nuclear reactors in the country.
The reactor, which has been offline since 2011, will remain in a safe state as its spent fuel is adequately cooled. The operator's future actions will determine whether the reactor can be brought back online after addressing the identified safety issues.
