The report therefore recommends a goal of between 66 million and 70 million KW, with consideration for longer operating cycles. According to most recent data published by the Federal of Electric Power Companies, Japan has 18 nuclear plant sites operating 52 units. Total capacity of those units is 45,083 megawatts. In fiscal year 1996, nuclear accounted for slightly over12 percent of Japans total generation. The new outlook, however, calls for that to increase to 17 percent in 2010.
Japan currently has one reactor under construction and four units planned.
The report does not spell out how many new reactors would be needed to meet projected electricity requirements and the Kyoto emissions commitments. Among the recommendations for promoting nuclear power development, the report called for openness with the media and public as well as stepped up educational efforts. It also said local communities should be extended subsidies, loans, and tax incen- tives as well as employment opportunities. At the same time, the back end of the fuel cycle spent fuel management should be addressed at the national level and specific actions identified as soon as possible.