April 4, 2013

Apr 4, 2013 | Fukushima Accident Updates

  • Japan’s Nuclear Regulatory Authority has posted draft requirements for relicensing nukes. The current operational limit is 40 years. In order to qualify for a 20 year extension, plants must meet all new regulations to be issued this coming summer, run ultrasonic structural checks on reactor systems and “closely examine” strength of the primary containment walls. While not included in the draft, it is expected that all power cabling will have to be non-flammable and backup water supply pathways to the reactor vessels will have to be installed. Currently, 3 of Japan’s 50 nukes, other than units 1-4 at Fukushima Daiichi, are more than 40 years old. (NHK World) In another announcement, the nuclear watchdog is changing the term “safety standards” to “guidelines” for their new regulatory system. The NRA believes the term safety standards may lead the public to believe that the regulations will make nuclear plants immune to accidents. NRA chairman Shunichi Tanaka said, “Following the guidelines does not ensure safety. Rather, adhering to the guidelines is a sign that the operator is attempting to mitigate potential dangers.” (Japan Today)
  • The community of Minamisoma continues to recover. The percentage of students in the district has rebounded to 60% of the pre-Fukushima accident condition. Of the 5,476 students that would constitute full enrollment, 3,279 will be attending elementary and junior high schools this coming academic year. Those who will not return to the district schools are due to two reasons. An election board official explained one of the reasons, “I think this is because schoolchildren have got used to their life at schools in areas where they are taking shelter. However, we’re determined to continue our efforts to create an environment in which children can study in the city without concern.” Other students are being kept from attending Minamisoma schools because of their parent’s fear of radiation exposure. Regardless, retention rates have increased over the past two years. In 2011, 30% of elementary students and 43% of junior high children attended the community’s municipal schools. Thus, the increased enrollment for the upcoming year is seen as a positive. (Mainichi Shimbun)
  • Tokyo Electric Company says they need to cut $1 billion from their budget in order to remain viable. The costs of decommissioning Fukushima Daiichi and the compensation payments to evacuees by Tokyo are taking their toll. Adding to this are numerous lawsuits by groups of Japanese residents and one filed by a few US Navy personnel. Tepco is expected to post a $1.3 billion loss for fiscal year 2012, which ended March 31. The company said they will make all necessary reductions to ensure they will stay afloat. This includes overhauling the organizational structure and reviewing procurement procedures due to the rising cost of non-nuclear fuels caused by the nuclear moratorium. (Japan Daily Press)
  • Tokyo has approved a reform package for power distribution in Japan. Until now, customers could only get electricity from the most local of 10 regional companies. Since 3/11/11, critics have argued that the utilities monopolize electric generation, distribution and sales. The Prime Minister’s cabinet has issued a scheme that will redefine power distribution along a variety of business lines, opening free competition. Industry Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said, “These reforms concern the whole industry, ranging from upstream procurement and power generation to downstream retail and consumption. The demand side will have more options, which will lead to lower electricity prices.” (Japan Today)