On October 25, Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) showcased a robot arm developed for the extraction of melted nuclear fuel debris at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant. The technology is critical for the cleanup effort as TEPCO faces significant delays, with the deployment of the second unit now projected for fiscal year 2026, five years later than originally planned. The robot arm spans approximately 22 meters in length and weighs about 4.6 tons, allowing for remote exploration of various areas inside the reactor containment vessel.

During the demonstration at a training facility in Naraha, Fukushima Prefecture, the robot arm was shown retrieving simulated debris via remote operation. It is scheduled to enter the containment vessel during summer to remove obstacles while acquiring 3D data and video footage. Following this, TEPCO plans to collect several millimeters of debris that has accumulated at the bottom of the reactor, with hopes to gradually expand the retrieval area and volume using additional equipment in subsequent phases.

The overall project, initiated in 2017, reflects the ongoing challenges posed by the Fukushima disaster, as TEPCO seeks to advance its cleanup operations amid advancing technological solutions. As the company progresses, the developments are not only significant for Japan's energy and environmental policy but also represent a step forward in nuclear safety and disaster management in a context that remains politically sensitive in Japan.