The NEA Horonobe International Project (HIP) brings together representatives from 11 organisations who are actively collaborating on the theme of challenges for developing advanced technologies and human resources towards long-term implementation of geological disposal using the Horonobe Underground Research Laboratory (URL).
The main objectives of the HIP are to:
- Develop and demonstrate advanced technologies to be used in repository design, operation and closure, and a realistic safety assessment in deep geological disposal;
- Encourage and train the next generation of engineers and researchers by sharing and transferring a vast amount of knowledge and experience developed in relevant organisations worldwide.
Project members gathered for a meeting to discuss the progress and future activities related to the three technical R&D tasks carried out at the URL. Conducted in Hokkaido by the Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA), these research tasks aim to enhance the reliability of disposal technology.
During his opening remarks at the meeting, JAEA Deputy Director General Yukio Tachi highlighted the importance of NEA HIP joint project to the international community.
In the same context, the NEA HIP third Management Board meeting was held on 6 June 2024. Taking into account the substantial technical progress of the three research tasks, the Board members discussed the preparation of the project’s extension into its second phase from 31 March 2025 to 31 March 2029.
The HIP joint project was launched in 2023 and is structured around two phases: 2023-2025 and 2025-2029.
