AI helps labor-short Japan keep nuclear plants safe

Regulator encourages utilities to leverage tech as talent pool shrinks

20250514N Nuclear Power

Making use of AI in nuclear power could help improve safety and resolve a labor crunch. (Chugoku Electric Power)

MASATOSHI IDA

TOKYO -- Japanese nuclear power plant operators are finding ways to incorporate artificial intelligence into safety processes, aiming to maintain safety standards as they grapple with a personnel shortage.

In a March discussion forum with power companies, Nuclear Regulation Authority Chairman Shinsuke Yamanaka suggested that AI could be used in inspections -- to spot corrosion early in containment buildings, for example.

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