Kansai Elec lowers nuclear output after rod trouble

TOKYO, March 12 (Reuters) - Japan's second-biggest utility Kansai Electric Power Co (9503.T: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz) cut the run rate of its No. 2 generator at its Ohi nuclear plant on Wednesday after trouble with a control rod. The run rate of the 1,175 megawatt No. 2 generator in Fukui, western Japan was reduced to 75 percent of capacity by 11:45 a.m. (0245 GMT) on Wednesday, a company spokesman said.

A control rod became stuck during an operation test, he said.

There was no radioactive impact on the outside environment and it was not clear if the No. 2 generator would be completely shut down later, a separate spokesman said. (Reporting by Osamu Tsukimori)