Takahama nuclear plant (2)

November 13, 2014

Utility mulls restart of 40-year-old reactors

http://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/english/news/20141114_02.html

Nuclear & Energy

Nov. 13, 2014 - Updated 22:04 UTC+1

The Kansai Electric Power Company is reportedly considering a process of special inspections in order to restart 2 aging nuclear reactors.

The number 1 and 2 reactors at the Takahama nuclear plant in Fukui Prefecture, central Japan, are about 40 years old.

Last year the Japanese government limited the operational lifespan of nuclear reactors to 40 years in principle. It also said that an exceptional extension would require what it calls "special inspections." These include a detailed examination of deterioration in reactor structures approved by the Nuclear Regulation Authority.

Since then, attention has been focused on whether operators will apply for the extended operation of reactors over 40 years old or decommission them.

Kansai Electric says it is still considering whether to apply for an extension of 2 reactors at its Mihama nuclear station. One is 44 years old and the other 42.

Chugoku Electric and Kyushu Electric in western Japan are also considering whether to apply for an extension of their older reactors.

See also

Kepco mulls operating two reactors beyond 40-year limit

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2014/11/13/national/kansai-electric-mulls-operating-two-reactors-beyond-40-year-limit/#.VGWnGcl5B1s

Kyodo

TSURUGA, FUKUI PREF. – Kansai Electric Power Co. is making arrangements to conduct special checks that wold enable two reactors at its Takahama nuclear plant in Fukui Prefecture to operate beyond the operational limit of 40 years, sources said. […]