The U.S. and Japanese public and private sectors are currently cooperating on advanced reactors, also known as “fast reactors.” Both countries pursued the commercialization of fast reactors beginning in the 1950s but halted their programs for different reasons and at different times. The United States halted construction of prototype reactors in the 1990s due to soaring costs, safety issues, and the risks of nuclear proliferation. Japan abandoned its prototype Monju reactor in 2016 for cost and safety issues.

The United States and Japan are now returning to this technology together. The US Department of Energy is financially supporting the construction of demonstration reactors by the private sector and Japan has decided to join the US program.

The cooperation raises interesting questions. Is there any prospect for commercialization of fast reactors in the near future? What are the hoped-for gains? Are fast reactors an effective solution to nuclear waste and climate change? What are the potential nuclear proliferation implications? This event features speakers from the United States, Canada and Japan to discuss the current status, feasibility and implications of promoting the development of fast reactors.