The operation of Nuclear Power Plants in Fukui Prefecture commenced in March 1970 with the No. 1 Unit of the Tsuruga Power Plant operated by the Japan Atomic Power Company. Work proceeded on the construction of nuclear reactors for use in a commercial nuclear power plant on the coast of Wakasa Bay and for research and development purposes following this. In addition to 13 commercial nuclear power plant reactors, Fukui Prefecture also currently plays host to the Monju fast breeder reactor, which is used as a research facility, and the FUGEN Decommissioning Engineering Center (formerly Fugen), which is in charge of research into decommissioning reactors.