Japanese experts have pointed out the pros and cons over the government's plan to explore the possibility of developing next-generation nuclear reactors.

An expert panel at the industry ministry on Thursday discussed Japan's nuclear energy policy online.

The panel meeting came a day after the government disclosed its consideration of developing and building next-generation nuclear power plants, in a conference on achieving carbon neutrality.

The panel's experts expressed opinions in succession as the government had been saying it did not intend to construct new nuclear power plants.

Some members said the government's move would be appropriate at a time when Japan aims to ensure energy security, achieve a carbon-neutral society, and develop human resources in the nuclear sector.

Others stressed the need to win public support for the plan by articulating the policy and providing an explanation that is easy to understand.

Some experts also pointed out that the move should be discussed together with challenges such as final disposal of radioactive waste.

Others said the government needs to make a projection on how much the development of next-generation reactors would cost taxpayers.

They also stressed the need to strike a balance between the new plan and the current policy of reducing Japan's reliance on nuclear power as much as possible, as stated in the country's strategic energy plan.