Hitachi Explores Small Modular Reactors to Lower Japan Energy Costs

Hitachi Ltd. is exploring the development of small modular reactors (SMRs) in Japan to address rising energy costs. Andreas Schierenbeck, CEO of Hitachi Energy, announced the initiative during the Bloomberg New Economy Forum, stating that the company is developing the technology alongside various partners.

Schierenbeck noted that the construction of a new reactor from scratch typically requires five to 10 years. He indicated that high power costs may be shifting public opinion toward nuclear power, which could mitigate the long-standing opposition to the technology following the Fukushima nuclear disaster.