Japan must use its existing nuclear fleet to 2050 and should develop a role for advanced nuclear technologies, including small modular reactors, which it should deploy as early as feasible, a report by the Washington-based Atlantic Council think-tank says.

These reactors would help achieve Japan’s vision of a decarbonised society and regain its influential position in global civil nuclear exports. Importantly, advanced nuclear technologies would also assist in the deployment of renewables and the decentralisation of the grid, and would provide a source of low-carbon energy that could replace coal in the energy mix.

Advanced nuclear technologies could provide flexible generation to complement renewable energy and replace thermal generation. Nuclear technologies can also facilitate hydrogen production along with supporting energy integration technologies, the report concludes.