In Phase 2, the company will begin dismantling and removing equipment located inside the controlled area that has relatively low radiation levels, including pumps and tanks around the reactor zone. To minimize worker exposure and prevent the spread of radioactive materials, work will be carried out using sealed enclosures, local exhaust ventilation systems, and appropriate dust-suppression techniques.

Items eligible for clearance under the national clearance system will be temporarily stored, and upon approval, reused or disposed of as general waste. Materials that cannot be cleared will be managed appropriately in the solid waste storage facility.

At the Ikata site, Unit 3 (PWR, 890 MWe) is currently in operation, while decommissioning of Units 1 and 2 began in 2017 and 2021, respectively.

The overall decommissioning process consists of four phases:

  • Phase 1 (approx. 10 years): Preparatory work

  • Phase 2 (approx. 15 years): Dismantling and removal of primary-system equipment

  • Phase 3 (approx. 8 years): Dismantling of reactor-zone equipment, including the reactor pressure vessel and steam generators

  • Phase 4 (approx. 7 years): Demolition of buildings and remaining structures

The entire process will span roughly 40 years, with completion of decommissioning for Unit 1 expected in the mid-2050s.

Shikoku Electric Power also plans to conduct a comprehensive nuclear emergency response drill at the site from November 28 to 30. The scenario assumes an accident accompanied by a complex natural disaster, resulting in isolated areas on the peninsula. The company will work in coordination with the Self-Defense Forces, police, and fire departments to verify procedures for securing evacuation routes for local residents.

The comprehensive nuclear emergency response drill is conducted annually under government leadership to strengthen Japan’s nuclear emergency preparedness framework, ensure coordinated response among relevant organizations, and promote public understanding.