Japan’s nuclear regulator has approved changes to safety regulations at the Takahama nuclear power plant, allowing its No.1 reactor to become the first in the country to operate for more than 50 years.
The No.1 reactor at the Takahama plant in Fukui Prefecture came online in 1974. Operated by Kansai Electric Power Company, it is Japan’s oldest nuclear power reactor in operation, marking 50 years in service on November 14.
Nuclear power reactors in Japan are legally allowed to continue operation for up to 60 years. But operators are required to revise safety regulations for plants older than 50 years, taking into account the facility’s deterioration.
On Wednesday, the Nuclear Regulation Authority held a regular meeting to review KEPCO’s application to change its regulations for the extension.
The nuclear watchdog’s secretariat informed the commissioners that additional checks were conducted to assess deterioration inside the reactor. It also explained plans to replace some components as needed.
The commissioners then unanimously approved the change to the safety regulations, clearing the way for the reactor’s operation beyond 50 years.