Safety screening for storage facility in Mutsu City (Aomori)

 January 15, 2014

Nuke waste storage operator applies for safety check

http://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/english/news/20140115_30.html 

The operator of an intermediate nuclear waste storage facility being built in Japan has applied for safety screening ahead of its planned start of operations next year.

Recyclable-Fuel Storage Company is owned by 2 nuclear power plant operators, Tokyo Electric Power Company and Japan Atomic Power Company.

On Wednesday, Recyclable-Fuel Storage applied for safety screening with the Nuclear Regulation Authority.

The company has been building the facility in Mutsu City, in the northern prefecture of Aomori, to take in spent nuclear fuel from plants run by its 2 parent firms.

The operator plans to store a total of 3,000 tons of nuclear waste for a maximum of 50 years.

Company officials say the facility proved safe when tested under new standards simulating tremors 30 percent stronger than what was initially simulated.

The company hopes to start operating the facility in March next year.

Jan. 15, 2014 - Updated 12:59 UTC