Mitsubishi Heavy wins Japan's support for next-generation nuclear reactor development

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has secured Japanese government support for three key projects focused on developing next-generation nuclear reactor technologies. These initiatives encompass advanced light water reactors, small modular reactors (SMRs), and technologies designed to bolster the nuclear power supply chain.

The projects, selected under the industry ministry's supplementary budget program, will concentrate on safety technologies and standard designs for advanced light water reactors. Additionally, they will address design and component technologies for SMRs, aligning with Japan's broader strategy to revive its nuclear power capabilities. This revival is seen as crucial for bolstering energy security and advancing decarbonization efforts.

Japan's energy policy, outlined in its latest basic energy plan, emphasizes the maximum utilization of nuclear power. The plan, approved in February 2025, promotes the development and deployment of next-generation reactors. New nuclear policy guidelines, approved recently, suggest replacing up to five reactors by the 2040s and as many as 14 by the 2050s to ensure a stable power supply.

From a technical standpoint, advanced light water reactors and SMRs are considered ready for practical deployment. Mitsubishi Heavy is developing its SRZ-1200 advanced light water reactor for early commercial use in Japan and is also leading government-backed development of test fast reactors and high-temperature gas reactors. The newly allocated subsidies will further accelerate the development of a domestically designed SMR, specifically engineered to withstand Japan's seismic and tsunami conditions.