Hitachi Unveils Metaverse Platform to Enhance Nuclear Power Plant Efficiency

On July 9, 2025, Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE:6501) announced the development of its groundbreaking ‘Metaverse Platform for Nuclear Power Plants,’ designed to enhance operational efficiency in the construction, maintenance, and safety management of nuclear facilities. This innovative platform utilizes advanced metaverse and artificial intelligence technologies, aiming to address significant challenges faced by electric utilities and streamline processes from design to decommissioning.

The Metaverse Platform enables a comprehensive digital recreation of nuclear power plants using high-precision point cloud and 3D CAD data. By creating a virtual environment that mirrors real-world operations, it facilitates improved information sharing, schedule coordination, and asset management among various stakeholders, including electric utilities and contractors. According to Dr. Hiroshi Tanaka, Chief Technology Officer at Hitachi, “This platform is a crucial step towards establishing a ‘Data-Driven Power Plant,’ which will leverage data analytics to optimize investment planning and enhance equipment reliability.”

The significance of this development cannot be overstated, particularly in light of the ongoing challenges in the nuclear sector following the Great East Japan Earthquake. The shutdown of all domestic nuclear power plants for prolonged periods has led to a wave of retirements among skilled workers and a decline in training opportunities for newcomers. This has intensified the need for effective knowledge transfer and improved productivity within the industry.

In response to these pressing issues, Hitachi’s Metaverse Platform aims to enhance productivity by enabling accurate understanding and real-time sharing of site conditions. By allowing multiple users to access the metaverse simultaneously, stakeholders can engage in effective communication and decision-making across diverse geographical locations. The platform incorporates AI-driven natural language processing, which enhances search capabilities for design documentation, thus enabling more efficient engineering operations.

One of the key features of the Metaverse Platform is its ability to overlay high-density point cloud data with 3D CAD models. This technological integration allows for precise verification of actual site conditions, helping to identify discrepancies between design plans and physical structures. Furthermore, the platform includes security measures such as encrypted communication and restricted access to ensure data integrity.

The potential applications of this platform extend beyond immediate operational enhancements. It serves as a foundational tool for realizing data-driven decision-making within the nuclear industry. By collecting and analyzing on-site data, the platform can predict equipment failures and facilitate timely maintenance, thereby contributing to enhanced safety and operational efficiency.

The announcement of the Metaverse Platform aligns with Hitachi’s broader vision of integrating digital technologies with traditional energy sectors to create sustainable and efficient energy solutions. The forthcoming showcase at the Hitachi Social Innovation Forum 2025 in Osaka will provide further insights into this revolutionary platform and its implications for the nuclear energy landscape.

In conclusion, Hitachi's introduction of the Metaverse Platform for Nuclear Power Plants represents a significant advancement in the intersection of digital technology and nuclear energy management. As the industry faces an aging workforce and evolving operational challenges, this innovative solution may provide the necessary tools to enhance productivity, improve safety, and ensure a more sustainable future for nuclear power.