Japan's Atomic Energy Agency says it has restarted a controversial nuclear reactor, more than 14 years after its operations were suspended. Work started once again at the plutonium-fired reactor in the northern fishing town of Tsuruga, after the government gave its approval. The reason it was shut down in the first place was because of a huge fire that broke out in the reactor in 1995. The accident created widespread public concern over the safety of nuclear power, but since Japan relies on nuclear energy for 1/3 of its domestic power supply they decided it was time to re-open the reactor despite domestic concerns and hesitations. Japan is definitely in need of the power supply so they are hoping to have it up and running by the upcoming weekend, and at maximum output by 2013. Other than Japan, only Russia and India have fast-breeder reactors operational, but China is considering joining the ranks.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/8664005.stm
Submitted by: Nate Heberlein
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