Second Phase of Decommissioning for Unit 1 of Japan's Ikata Nuclear Power Plant Approved by Prefectural Committee

The "Environmental Safety Management Committee for the Ikata Nuclear Power Plant" in Ehime Prefecture, Japan, held a meeting in Matsuyama City on September 2 to discuss plans by Shikoku Electric Power to proceed with the second phase of decommissioning for Unit 1 of the Ikata Nuclear Power Plant. The unit, located in Ikata-cho, Ehime Prefecture, is currently in the process of being decommissioned.

The decommissioning of Unit 1 at the Ikata Nuclear Power Plant has been divided into four main phases. Shikoku Electric Power had previously conducted prior consultations with Ehime Prefecture and Ikata-cho regarding the transition to the next phase, obtained local consent, and submitted relevant applications to Japan's Nuclear Regulation Authority (NRA). In July of this year, the NRA approved the application.

At the meeting on September 2, Ehime Prefecture explained that, based on the national review results, the prefectural expert panel had completed a report on safety measures for the second phase. The report concluded that the national-level review procedures and findings were generally appropriate.

The report also required Shikoku Electric Power to take necessary measures to prevent low-level radioactive waste generated during the second phase of decommissioning from remaining on-site for extended periods; to strengthen measures for preventing the spread of radioactive materials during work implementation; and to ensure transparency in radiation management information.

The meeting ultimately approved the report without any objections. Ehime Prefecture stated that the committee's review results would be submitted to the Governor. The Governor will decide whether to consent to Shikoku Electric Power proceeding with the second phase of decommissioning for Unit 1 of the Ikata Nuclear Power Plant after hearing the opinions of the Prefectural Assembly and Ikata-cho.