Japan nuclear research set to revive on U.S. fast-reactor project

Tokyo seeks to ensure access to tech for recycling spent fuel

The JAEA will share lessons it learned from developing the Monju fast breeder reactor in central Japan's Fukui Prefecture. (Photo courtesy of the Japan Atomic Energy Agency)

Nikkei staff writers

January 3, 2022 06:55 JST

TOKYO -- Reviving its research efforts in fast reactors, Japan will take part in a U.S.-led project to develop the facilities, seeking access to technology crucial to recycling spent nuclear fuel.

The Japan Atomic Energy Agency and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries are slated to collaborate in an initiative led by the U.S. Department of Energy and nuclear energy startup TerraPower, which is backed by Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates. The two sides will draft a memorandum of understanding, Nikkei has learned, with details to be hammered out.