Yamaguchi Prefecture Begins Drilling Survey for Nuclear Waste Storage Facility

Chugoku Electric Power Co. has commenced a six-month drilling survey in Kaminoseki Town, Yamaguchi Prefecture, to assess the suitability of the site for an interim storage facility for spent nuclear fuel from nuclear power plants. The survey aims to examine the presence of active faults and the distribution of strata and geology at depths ranging from 100 to 300 meters underground.

If the site is deemed suitable based on the survey results, Chugoku Electric will request the town government's agreement to construct the interim storage facility. The proposed location for the facility is the planned site of a nuclear power plant in the town, whose construction has been suspended.

In August 2022, the Kaminoseki government accepted a plan allowing Chugoku Electric and Kansai Electric Power Co. to conduct a joint survey for the construction of the storage facility. The decision to move forward with the drilling survey marks a significant step in the process of establishing the interim storage facility.

Why this matters: The construction of an interim storage facility for spent nuclear fuel is a critical issue for Japan, as the country seeks to manage its nuclear waste safely and efficiently. The outcome of the drilling survey in Kaminoseki Town could have significant implications for the future of nuclear energy in the region and the nation as a whole.

The drilling survey is expected to provide essential data on the geological characteristics of the site, which will inform the decision-making process regarding the facility's construction.

Key Takeaways

• Chugoku Electric starts 6-month drilling survey in Kaminoseki Town to assess site for spent nuclear fuel storage.
• Survey aims to examine presence of active faults and geology at 100-300m depths for potential storage facility.
• Kaminoseki govt accepted plan for Chugoku and Kansai Electric to conduct joint survey for storage facility.
• Drilling survey is a critical step in managing Japan's nuclear waste and the future of nuclear energy.