Image Credits: The Japan News
On Tuesday, five municipalities in Aomori Prefecture formalized a safety agreement with the operator of a new temporary storage facility for spent nuclear fuel. The pact, signed by the towns of Yokohama and Oma, and the villages of Higashidori, Kazamaura, and Sai, is a crucial step before the facility in Mutsu can begin operations. Each of these municipalities borders Mutsu.
The agreement is a prerequisite for the facility’s operational launch and outlines protocols for ensuring safety in the storage of spent nuclear fuel, which will be held at the site until it is reprocessed. This facility marks Japan’s first of its kind.
Recyclable-Fuel Storage Co. (RFS) President Yasunari Takahashi confirmed at a press conference following the signing in Aomori that the agreement allows the facility to commence receiving spent nuclear fuel. The initial shipment is anticipated in September.
Earlier in August, Aomori Prefecture, the city of Mutsu, and RFS had also signed a tripartite safety agreement. This agreement mandates that RFS notify the prefectural and municipal governments of its transportation plans for spent nuclear fuel at least two weeks in advance.
The facility’s operational status will depend on a subsequent inspection by the Nuclear Regulation Authority. The agreements are intended to safeguard local residents and the environment, with RFS required to provide operational reports to both the municipalities and the local governments in addition to the prefecture and Mutsu.
The agreement underscores a commitment to rigorous safety standards and transparency, aiming to protect both local communities and the environment. RFS will be required to provide regular updates on its operations to the municipalities, ensuring ongoing oversight and accountability as the facility transitions into its operational phase.