The Japan Atomic Energy Commission on July 19 urged the government to set aside funds for decommissioning the crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear plant, bolster nuclear safety and support the health of people exposed to radiation in its fiscal 2012 budget proposals.
The Japan Atomic Energy Commission on July 19 urged the government to set aside funds for decommissioning the crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear plant, bolster nuclear safety and support the health of people exposed to radiation in its fiscal 2012 budget proposals.
Reflecting the ongoing nuclear crisis, the commission's report showed less support for advancing Japan's nuclear fuel cycle policy and played down the Monju prototype fast-breeder reactor project.
The commission said fiscal 2012 spending for the nation's nuclear fuel cycle should be diverted to repair and maintenance of existing technology.
That was in sharp contrast to the commission's recommendations a year ago, when it urged that 14 new reactors be built by 2030 and full operation of Monju pursued.
The cost of upkeep alone for the trouble-plagued Monju reactor is estimated at 20 billion yen ($253 million) annually.
The country's nuclear energy policy is certain to undergo review due to the serious accident at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear plant. The government spends more than 400 billion yen on nuclear power each year.
About 455.6 billion yen was set aside for the nuclear power program for this fiscal year, an increase of 23.3 billion yen from fiscal 2010.
The Japan Atomic Energy Commission formulates guidelines on spending on nuclear power projects for government ministries and agencies.
Its fiscal 2012 proposals include earmarking funds for mid- and long-term measures toward decommissioning the hobbled reactors at Fukushima No. 1, for stepping up safety precautions at other nuclear facilities, for managing the long-term health of people exposed to radiation and for the release of information to the international community.
Nuclear waste disposal is an essential, ongoing task that remains crucial, regardless of changes in national nuclear power policy, the commission said.
The commission is expected to draw up basic proposals by the end of 2012 for future nuclear research and development.