Japan has approved the restart of the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power plant after nearly two decades, signalling a major shift in its post-Fukushima energy policy. The move reflects Japan’s renewed focus on energy security, cost control, and decarbonisation amid volatile global fuel markets.
Japan Approves Restart of Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Nuclear Power Plant
Niigata Assembly Clears Long-Pending Restart
The Niigata Prefectural Assembly cleared the proposal to resume operations at the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa facility, backing Governor Hideyo Hanazumi’s support for reopening the plant.
Following the approval, Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) has been authorised to restart power generation at the world’s largest nuclear power station by capacity.
The decision came despite public opposition, including protests by local residents concerned about nuclear safety.
Background of Shutdown and Planned Timeline
Located about 220 kilometres northwest of Tokyo, the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa plant was among 54 nuclear reactors shut down across Japan after the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster in March 2011.
Key timeline details:
- Reactor complex: 7 reactors
- Reactor No. 6 expected to restart by January 20, 2026
- TEPCO investment: Nearly ¥100 billion over the next decade
- Focus areas: safety systems, infrastructure resilience, regulatory compliance
Energy Security and Economic Rationale
Japan’s nuclear revival is driven by its heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels. In recent years, Japan spent around ¥10.7 trillion annually on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and coal imports, accounting for nearly 10% of total import costs.
Nuclear power is viewed as:
- A stable domestic energy source
- A shield against global fuel price volatility
- A key tool for long-term energy security
Low-Carbon Energy and Decarbonisation Goals
Nuclear energy is considered a low-carbon power source, supporting Japan’s climate commitments. Restarting nuclear plants helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining reliable base-load electricity generation.
The Kashiwazaki-Kariwa restart is therefore central to balancing economic stability and environmental responsibility.
PM Sanae Takaichi’s Nuclear Strategy
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has strongly supported the revival of nuclear power under Japan’s broader energy strategy.
Key targets include:
- Reducing fossil fuels, which currently generate 60–70% of electricity
- Increasing nuclear power’s share to around 20% by 2040
The Kashiwazaki-Kariwa restart is a cornerstone of this strategy, aligning energy security with decarbonisation goals.
Exam-Oriented Key Facts
- Kashiwazaki-Kariwa is the world’s largest nuclear power plant by capacity
- Japan shut down most reactors after the 2011 Fukushima Daiichi disaster
- Reactor No. 6 is expected to restart by January 20, 2026
- Operated by TEPCO
- Nuclear power is a low-carbon energy source
- Japan plans to raise nuclear share to 20% by 2040
Question & Answer
Q1. Which nuclear power plant has Japan approved for restart after nearly two decades?
(a) Fukushima Daiichi
(b) Tokai Nuclear Plant
(c) Kashiwazaki-Kariwa
(d) Mihama Nuclear Plant
Answer: Kashiwazaki-Kariwa
Q2. The Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power plant is operated by which company?
(a) Mitsubishi Electric
(b) Kansai Electric Power
(c) Tokyo Electric Power Company
(d) Hitachi Energy
Answer: Tokyo Electric Power Company
Q3. Which event led to the shutdown of most nuclear reactors in Japan in 2011?
(a) Kobe earthquake
(b) Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster
(c) Niigata earthquake
(d) Tohoku volcanic eruption
Answer: Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster
Q4. By which date is Reactor No. 6 of Kashiwazaki-Kariwa expected to resume operations?
(a) July 2025
(b) December 2025
(c) January 20, 2026
(d) March 2026
Answer: January 20, 2026
Q5. Japan aims to increase the share of nuclear power to approximately what percentage by 2040?
(a) 10%
(b) 15%
(c) 20%
(d) 30%
Answer: 20%
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