from Power Vol.8
April 2000

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.

97% Reuseable material

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.

Photo   Photo
Uranium Enrichment Plant   Low-level Radioactive Waste
Disposal Center
Photo   Photo
Reprocessing Plant (under construction)   High-level Radioactive Waste
Storage Center
Photo: Japan Nuclear Fuel Limited(JNFL)