Utility Kyushu Electric Power has applied to Japan’s regulator to extend the life of Units 1 and 2 at the Sendai nuclear power station in southwestern Japan by 20 years to 60 years.
After the required inspections, Kyushu Electric confirmed the soundness of the reactors and containment vessels, adding that there would be no safety issues with even 60 years of operation, the company said.
The company said: “In order to apply for approval to extend the operation life span of nuclear power stations beyond 40 years, a special inspection is required by the Nuclear Reactor Regulation Act. For Sendai Nuclear Power Station Unit 1 and 2 these inspections started on October 12, 2021 and February 21, 2022 respectively.”
Sendai-1 and -2 are both 846-MW pressurised water reactor units. Sendai-1 began commercial operation in 1984 and Sendai-2 in 1985.
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