The Japanese Nuclear Regulatory Authority approved the continued operation of the first power unit of the Takahama NPP (Fukui Prefecture), which will turn 50 years old in November 2024, announced ag. Kyodo.
It is emphasized that this is the first case in Japan when the regulator approves the continued operation of a power unit whose age exceeds 50 years. After carrying out comprehensive inspections, the Japanese authorities have come to the conclusion that the first power unit of the Takahama NPP. meets all safety standards. The permit is issued for 10 years.
Until recently, the maximum operational life of nuclear reactors in Japan was 60 years, taking into account obtaining additional permission to extend the operation at the 40-year limit. However, legislative amendments were approved in 2023 that require nuclear power plants to be inspected 30 years after commissioning and every 10 years thereafter.
The Japanese government after the accident at the nuclear power plant "Fukushima-1" in the spring of 2011, it decided to shut down all nuclear power plants. After that, some reactors began restarting after security measures were tightened, including regarding possible sabotage. Japanese authorities are now paying close attention to restarting the reactors amid rising global energy prices.