Governor Ishida emphasized that energy policy is a critical issue directly linked to the stability of people’s lives, industrial development, and national security. He stated that it is essential to clarify and steadily implement Japan’s nuclear policy based on the Seventh Strategic Energy Plan.
Referring to the current status of the 15 nuclear reactor units located in Fukui Prefecture — seven in operation and seven under decommissioning, with Tsuruga Unit 2 remaining offline — Ishida explained that the prefecture has been advancing various pioneering initiatives nationwide in areas such as safety measures, spent fuel management, and regional development for host communities. Speaking from the standpoint of a governor who has cooperated with Japan’s national nuclear policy for more than half a century, he called for energy policies that reflect the voices and challenges faced by local communities.
The request document consisted of two main categories: “Implementation of Energy Policy and Strengthening of Nuclear Power Plant Safety Measures” and “Promotion of Regions Hosting Nuclear Power Plants.”
Regarding the implementation of energy policy and strengthening safety measures, Governor Ishida made four requests.
First, he called on the government to clarify its long-term vision for nuclear policy beyond 2050 in order to support safety investments and workforce development. He also requested the steady implementation of Kansai Electric Power’s spent fuel countermeasure roadmap and accelerated fuel removal through stronger cooperation among power companies. In addition, he urged the government to conduct strict reviews and progress management toward the completion of the Rokkasho Reprocessing Plant.
Concerning the spent fuel dry storage, Ishida stressed the need for the government to explain to the public that such storage is only a temporary measure at plant sites. Regarding spent MOX fuel, he called for accelerated technology development and the presentation of concrete measures based on demonstration research being conducted in France. He also requested efforts to promote public understanding and establish a business environment capable of supporting investments in nuclear safety measures.
Under the category of regional development for host communities, the governor made three additional requests. These included securing dedicated funding for evacuation road development, early approval and construction of the Hokuriku Shinkansen extension via the Obama-Kyoto route, and four-laning of the Maizuru-Wakasa Expressway. He emphasized that these infrastructure projects would also contribute to ensuring safety during emergencies. Ishida further requested concrete support measures for related businesses to promote the clearance system, as well as expanded subsidies under Japan’s Three Power Source Development Laws grant system.
In response, Minister Akazawa noted the expected increase in electricity demand and stated that “rather than treating nuclear energy and renewable energy as opposing choices, it is important to maximize the use of both.” He also emphasized that maximizing the utilization of decarbonized power sources is indispensable from the standpoint of energy security.
Akazawa further expressed his intention to deepen discussions on the future direction of nuclear energy while improving the business environment surrounding the sector. Regarding spent fuel management, he pointed to the importance of steadily implementing Kansai Electric Power’s roadmap and strengthening cooperation among utilities. He also stated that the government would continue progress management and support efforts toward the completion of the Rokkasho Reprocessing Plant.
In addition, he said the government would work to promote public understanding of the final disposal of high-level radioactive waste (HLW). On spent MOX fuel, he stated that Japan and France would continue demonstration research under bilateral cooperation with the aim of establishing the necessary technology in the latter half of the 2030s.
Akazawa also indicated that the government would coordinate with relevant ministries and agencies on regional development measures, utilization of the clearance system, and the future framework of subsidies under the Three Power Source Development Laws.
Finally, he stated, “We will firmly listen to the voices of the people of Fukui Prefecture and reflect them in our policies.”
