This article provides a detailed explanation of the current status and future prospects of decommissioning work at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, focusing on the realities of the work site and technological innovation initiatives.
The decommissioning work is steadily progressing according to the mid-to-long-term roadmap established by the government. In September 2024, trial removal of fuel debris began, marking the entry into 'Phase 3' of the decommissioning process. This trial removal was successfully completed in November 2024 and April 2025, representing an important step in this unprecedented and challenging work. Workers involved in the operations speak about the pressure of performing work that has no precedent anywhere in the world, and the strong sense of mission needed to overcome these challenges.
Working environment improvements have also progressed significantly, with radiation levels reduced to the point where protective clothing is no longer required in 96% of the site areas. This has substantially reduced the physical burden on workers, creating a more efficient and safer working environment. To further enhance work safety and efficiency, cutting-edge technologies are being actively introduced, including radiation visualization technology, drone-based remote monitoring systems, and radiation detectors using diamond semiconductors.
In terms of human resource development, the 9th Decommissioning Creative Robot Contest held in December 2024 saw students from across the nation compete with robot technologies that could be utilized at decommissioning sites. Many participating students expressed their desire to 'develop robots that can actually be used at decommissioning sites,' demonstrating that the cultivation of next-generation engineers is steadily advancing.
The article concludes that while the decommissioning work at Fukushima Daiichi faces difficult challenges, it is steadily moving forward through technological innovation and human resource development, representing an important effort for recovery that brings together Japan's technological capabilities.