Meeting the 21st Century's Energy Needs
As stated earlier, uranium fuel is recyclable. The fuel is comprised
of two types of uranium, 235 and 238, the former being more "combustible"
than the latter. Both are reprocessed for re-use from spent fuel,
portions of U-238 having been converted into plutonium 239 during
the fission process taking place in nuclear reactors. In fact,
around 30% of the power generated by reactors comes from plutonium.
This repeated reprocessing is the key link in what is known as
the nuclear fuel cycle.
Plutonium 239 is not found in nature, so extraction can be stricken
from any consideration in its use. And when mixed with uranium,
known as MOX fuel, plutonium can be utilized by light-water reactors,
the most common design currently in existence. Such an effort
is already underway in Japan, led by electric power companies.
Known as the "MOX utilization program" it not only facilitates
a more efficient use of existing reserves of uranium, the program
will help the nation secure a stable new energy source for the
long term."
Japan's electric power industry has begun to establish a nuclear
fuel cycle through Japan Nuclear Fuel, Ltd., a private venture
led by the nation's nine electric utilities. Three facilities
have been built and are operating to date a Uranium Enrichment
Plant (since March 1992), a Low-level Radioactive Waste Disposal
Center (December 1992), and a High-level Radioactive Waste Storage
Center (March 1995). Moreover, construction of a reprocessing
plant began in March 1993, and is slated for operation on July,
2005.
Of course, nuclear power represents one cornerstone in a comprehensive
energy policy, one designed to meet the growing energy needs of
Japan and based on an ideal mixture that includes thermoelectric
and hydroelectric power. Japan's electric power companies are
prepared to meet this demand in the 21st century and in the process,
ensure that nuclear energy be used solely for peaceful purposes,
and under the safest possible conditions.
The Nuclear Fuel Cycle Facilities of JNFL Ltd.
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Uranium Enrichment Plant |
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Low-level Radioactive Waste
Disposal Center |
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Reprocessing Plant (under construction) |
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High-level Radioactive Waste
Storage Center |
Photo: Japan Nuclear Fuel Limited(JNFL) |
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