Kansai Electric Power has announced plans to begin surveys for building a new nuclear reactor at its Mihama power station in Fukui prefecture, western Japan.
This marks the first major move toward new nuclear construction in the country since the 2011 Fukushima disaster.
The surveys will assess the land’s topography and geological features and include talks with nearby communities.
The planned reactor is expected to replace the now-decommissioned Mihama No.1 unit.
The company has identified the SRZ-1200, an advanced light water reactor, as the preferred model for the site.
The design work is being done in collaboration with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and other utility firms.
No official cost has been shared yet, but Kansai Electric intends to secure funding through bonds, loans, and other financial options, without issuing new shares at this time.
Japan’s nuclear energy plans stalled after the 2011 earthquake and tsunami led to the Fukushima Daiichi meltdown.
Since then, many reactors were shut down or subjected to stricter safety standards. Kansai Electric had originally started looking into a replacement for Mihama No.1 back in 2010 but stopped work after the disaster.
In 2015, both Mihama No.1 and No.2 were officially retired.
Japan still relies heavily on imported fossil fuels. With over a dozen reactors currently operating and more awaiting relicensing, the country aims to strengthen its energy security and reduce carbon emissions by increasing its nuclear output.
Kansai Electric is now the country’s leading nuclear operator by number of active reactors.
The government views next-generation reactors as a key part of meeting energy demands safely, provided local communities support the projects.