The comprehensive load performance test is carried out at the final stage of the pre-service operator inspection, once the reactor reaches its rated thermal output and stable operating conditions are achieved. During the test, key parameters such as reactor pressure, steam flow rate, and thermal output are recorded to verify the overall performance and integrity of the plant.
In parallel, the Nuclear Regulation Authority conducted its pre-service inspection to confirm that the operator’s inspections had been properly implemented. Based on these results, no issues were identified, and the Authority issued the pre-service inspection certificate, allowing the transition to commercial operation.
Speaking at a press conference on April 14, Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry AKAZAWA Ryosei emphasized the significance of restarting Unit 6, stating that it is “extremely important from the perspectives of alleviating the vulnerability of electricity supply in eastern Japan, curbing electricity costs, and securing decarbonized power sources.” He described the restart as “a major milestone and an important step forward.”
In light of heightened tensions in the Middle East, the minister also reiterated that nuclear power is “a decarbonized power source that contributes to energy security,” underscoring the importance of reactor restarts.
He further noted that the restart of Unit 6 is expected to reduce Japan’s annual LNG imports via the Strait of Hormuz by approximately 30%. Looking ahead to growing electricity demand, he reaffirmed that there is no change to the policy outlined in the Strategic Energy Plan to utilize both nuclear power and renewable energy.
