On April 3, Masahiro Toyoda, chairman of Japan Industrial Gases and Medical Association (JIMGA) had a press interview for the third time regarding the issue of Tokyo Electric Power (TEPCO) ‘s electric rate increase.

Chairman Toyoda said, “Through our discussion with the executive board members of JIMGA, we found that the requested increase includes the facility cost of the nuclear power plant which has not generated a single kWH of electricity in the renewed contract for the portion on and after April 1. From the viewpoint of the general accounting principle and fair processing standard, the increase should be denied. Until they proceed with concrete examinations for conclusion and reach an appropriate agreement, it is our principle to keep paying the same electric rates even after April 1 as before. This association is not in a position to accept the requested increase from April 1.”

Chairman Toyoda further commented, “Should such an unreasonable increase be accepted, our industry no doubt would be compelled to bear an extra cost of 17 to 20 billion yen every year. It is the Government that decided to stop the nuclear power plant and must set matters right. We do expect the Government will assume the responsibility in a satisfactory way. We heard a new rate system will be made out by coming June in a form of ministerial ordinance issued by Agency of Natural Resources and Energy, and we would like to wait for it.”