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Fukushima fuel debris removal likely delayed to 2037

The removal of melted nuclear fuel from the third power unit of the Fukushima-1 nuclear power plant will begin no earlier than 2037, which could significantly complicate the completion of the plant’s dismantling by 2051, Japanese media reported on Wednesday.

Initially, experts had hoped to begin fuel removal in the first half of the 2030s, but the preparation time is now estimated at 12–15 years.

At present, there are about 880 tonnes of nuclear fuel mixed with debris and various types of waste remaining in the reactors. The removal of this material remains the main and most difficult task in the decommissioning of the plant. In November 2024 and throughout 2025, experts were able to remove only a small amount – just 0.9 grams – from the second power unit.

On August 14, 2024, NHK reported that about 25 tonnes of water containing radioactive substances had leaked into the second power unit building. On August 22 of the same year, work was suspended due to equipment malfunctions.

The Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant began operating in 1971 in Fukushima Prefecture. The accident occurred on March 11, 2011 after a powerful tsunami knocked out the cooling and power supply systems. This resulted in the melting of fuel in three reactors, leading to hydrogen explosions and radiation leaks. About 165,000 people were evacuated from the area due to radioactive contamination. Clean-up operations are ongoing, and dismantling the plant is estimated to take more than 40 years.

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