The government and Fukui Prefecture today approved the resumption of operation of Takahama Unit 2 and Ohi Unit 4 of Kansai Electric Power Co., Inc. (Kansai Electric) as well as the start of inspections of its Mihama Unit 1, Takahama Unit 1 and Ohi Unit 2 after the authorities confirmed the results of the integrity inspection of the secondary system piping of Takahama 2 and Ohi 4, which had been shut down since August 13, 2004 following the secondary system piping fracture at Mihama Unit 3.

Consequently, Kansai Electric decided to restart Takahama 2 and Ohi 4. With the utmost attention to safety, we are commencing preparations for reactor startup today, and plan to resume operation of these units by September 5.

Mihama 1, Takahama 1 and Ohi 2 will be shut down in turn in order to examine the integrity of their secondary system piping after Takahama 2 and Ohi 4 reach the rated thermal output.

Kansai Electric will carefully investigate the causes of the secondary system piping fracture at Mihama Unit 3 and implement thorough measures to prevent similar accidents. We will also continue to ensure safe and stable operation of nuclear power plants with top priority on safety, while gaining the understanding of the national government, Fukui Prefecture, local authorities such as the host municipality, and the local communities.

Attachment: Schedule