Tokyo: Japan is moving closer to restarting the world’s largest nuclear power plant, marking a major step in its energy policy shift more than a decade after the Fukushima disaster.
The Kashiwazaki Kariwa nuclear power plant in Niigata Prefecture has remained offline since 2011, when the Fukushima Daiichi accident triggered a nationwide shutdown of nuclear reactors. Now, Japanese authorities and the plant’s operator, Tokyo Electric Power Co, say preparations are nearing completion for a long awaited restart.
Local lawmakers in Niigata are expected to give their consent for the restart following months of safety reviews and political debate. If approvals are finalized, one reactor at the Kashiwazaki Kariwa facility could begin operations as early as January 2026.
The plant, operated by TEPCO, is the largest nuclear facility in the world by capacity. Its return is seen as crucial for Japan as it struggles with rising electricity demand, high fuel import costs, and pressure to cut carbon emissions. Officials say nuclear power provides a stable source of electricity that can support economic growth and climate goals.
Japan’s government has also increased financial support for nuclear restarts and upgrades, including public funding to help utilities meet strict post Fukushima safety standards. Since 2023, several reactors across the country have returned to service, pushing nuclear power generation to its highest level in more than a decade.
Despite the government’s push, public concerns remain strong. Many residents near the plant continue to fear accidents and question evacuation plans in the event of an emergency. Memories of the Fukushima Daiichi disaster still shape public opinion, especially in regions hosting nuclear facilities.
Experts also warn that Japan faces a shortage of skilled nuclear workers after years of inactivity in the sector. Maintaining safety standards and technical expertise will be critical if the country plans to rely more heavily on nuclear energy in the coming years.
For the government, the restart of Kashiwazaki Kariwa represents both a symbolic and practical turning point. It signals Japan’s determination to revive nuclear power while balancing safety, public trust, and the urgent need for reliable energy in a changing global landscape.