Japan's nuclear power infrastructure along the Sea of Japan coast emerged unscathed after a 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture on New Year's Day. Although Hokuriku Electric Power's Shika nuclear plant experienced a partial disruption in its electricity system, with reports of an unusual incident near a power transformer, the overall safety of the nuclear facilities remains intact. The incident has reignited concerns about the country's reliance on nuclear energy, especially as Prime Minister Fumio Kishida aims to increase its usage as part of his "green transformation" policy.

The Nuclear Regulation Authority (NRA) reported that the Shika plant's No. 2 reactor faced a disruption in its electricity supply after staff heard a loud noise and detected a burning smell near a transformer. The incident triggered the activation of the fire extinguishing system, although no fire was detected. Hokuriku Electric officials believe the pressure inside the transformer increased due to the earthquake, leading to the release of pressure and the activation of safety measures.

Despite the challenges faced by Shika nuclear plant, critical safety equipment continued to receive power through alternative systems, and cooling pools for spent nuclear fuel remained operational. While radiation monitoring posts in the plant's vicinity experienced disruptions, no external radiation was detected. Similar incidents were reported at Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings' Kashiwazaki Kariwa Nuclear Power Station and Kansai Electric Power's Mihama, Oi, and Takahama plants, though no abnormalities in operation were observed.

The earthquake and tsunami warnings, reminiscent of the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, have revived public memories of the Fukushima disaster. This has raised doubts about the government's plans to increase the use of reactors, particularly those located along the Sea of Japan coast. Prime Minister Kishida's green transformation policy, approved last February, involves extending the lifespan of nuclear reactors and replacing those slated for decommissioning. However, the recent events may prompt a reevaluation of the safety and feasibility of such plans.

Source: japantimes.co.jp