Published on July 15, 2019.
This article examines the global development of fourth-generation nuclear reactors, including TerraPower’s TWR, fast breeder reactors, Monju, and France’s next-generation fast reactor demonstration project ASTRID. It discusses the challenge of preserving Japan’s nuclear technology amid headwinds against nuclear power, and records the significance of cooperation between the Japan Atomic Energy Agency, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, and French partners.

July 15, 2019.
The fourth generation is expected to be put into practical use from the 2030s onward.
Research and development of multiple next-generation reactors, including TerraPower’s TWR, is moving forward.
At present, development plans for next-generation reactors known as the “fourth generation” are advancing around the world.
Nuclear power plants have continued to evolve, including improvements in safety, from the “first generation” of the early development period, to the “second generation” built from the late 1960s to the early 1990s, and the “third generation,” which began operation from the late 1990s to around 2010.
The fourth generation is expected to be put into practical use from the 2030s onward.
Research and development of multiple next-generation reactors, including TerraPower’s TWR, is moving forward.
In Japan, the “fast breeder reactor” has been regarded as the leading candidate for the fourth generation.
A fast breeder reactor, which produces more nuclear fuel than it consumes, is a “dream reactor,” but the prototype reactor Monju in Fukui Prefecture, which is still at the research stage, has remained shut down for a long period due to repeated troubles.
After the accident at TEPCO’s Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, the outlook became unclear, and even within the ruling parties there remains strong opinion in favor of a “complete withdrawal” from Monju.
Amid headwinds against nuclear power, Japanese parties are working to maintain the technologies cultivated through fast breeder reactor development.
The Japan Atomic Energy Agency, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, and others have agreed with French nuclear giant Areva and others to cooperate in the development of next-generation reactors.
They will participate in France’s development plan for ASTRID, a demonstration reactor for a next-generation fast reactor, and will make use of the technologies Japan possesses.
This article continues.