Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) has secured an order from Shikoku Electric Power to supply 24 MOX (mixed oxide fuel) assemblies for Unit 3 of the Ikata nuclear power station in Japan.

The components will be supplied to Orano, a major player in the nuclear energy sector which specialises in the delivery of nuclear solutions.

Orano will fabricate 40 MOX fuel assemblies at its MELOX plant in France.

MHI has a history of supplying 57 MOX fuel assemblies to Japanese utilities, leveraging its technical expertise and experience to ensure high-quality production.

The use of MOX fuel will enable Shikoku to utilise plutonium extracted by reprocessing spent fuel, contributing to the steady promotion of Shikoku's plu-thermal plan.

The plan involves using MOX fuel in light water reactors, enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of nuclear power generation.

The contract follows a similar order received in October from Kyushu Electric Power for Unit 3 of the Genkai nuclear power station.

MHI will design MOX fuel and have components such as cladding tubes manufactured by Mitsubishi Nuclear Fuel, part of the MHI Group.

In other developments, MHI and the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore hydrogen co-firing technologies in Thailand’s gas turbine power generation facilities.

This collaboration will begin with a pilot project at one of EGAT’s power plants, with a feasibility study expected by March 2025.

MHI, along with its subsidiary Mitsubishi Power, will support EGAT in achieving a hydrogen co-firing ratio of 20%, as requested by EGAT.

This initiative reflects MHI's commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions and fostering international partnerships in the power sector.