The new policy says nuclear power provides stable output and serves 'an important role' as a carbon-free base load energy source, but nuclear energy opponents say it is 'extremely disappointing'.
Takeo Kikkawa, an economics professor at the International University of Japan and an expert on energy, said utility operators under the new policy could keep using old equipment instead of investing in new technology or renewables."Naturally, we should aim for newer technology and use it safely. Therefore, extending reactors' life spans is an undesirable move," Mr Kikkawa recently told a talk show.
The new policy does not help address imminent supply shortages because reactors cannot be restarted as quickly as the government hopes due to operators' delayed safety upgrades and other obstacles including local consent, experts say., and achieving the government's goal of raising its share to 20 to 22 per cent by fiscal 2030 will require about 27 reactors, from the current 10 — a target some say is not achievable.
Kenichi Oshima, a Ryukoku University professor of environmental economy and energy policy, said some of what the government calls "innovative" reactors are not so different from existing technology and that prospects for nuclear fusion and other next-generation reactors are largely uncertain and not achievable anytime soon.
The regulation authority came under fire on Wednesday after revelations by a civil group that a few of its experts had discussed details with industry ministry officials before the watchdog was officially asked to consider a rule change, despite their compulsory independence.
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