Japanese authorities have authorized the restart of the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Nuclear Power Plant, the largest of its kind globally, after more than 15 years of dormancy. This decision follows the catastrophic Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster in 2011, which prompted a nationwide reassessment of nuclear energy. The move signals a significant shift in Japan’s energy policy as the country seeks to decrease its dependence on imported fossil fuels.
The Niigata prefectural assembly, where the plant is located, passed a bill on Monday allowing Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) to reactivate one of the plant’s seven reactors. The company plans to bring the No. 6 reactor online around January 20, 2024, according to Japan’s national broadcaster NHK.
Japan has pursued a cautious approach toward nuclear energy since the devastating events of March 11, 2011, when a powerful 9.0-magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami led to a meltdown at the Fukushima plant. This disaster was the most severe nuclear incident since Chernobyl in 1986, resulting in the shutdown of all 54 of Japan’s nuclear reactors, including Kashiwazaki-Kariwa, which is situated approximately 320 kilometers (200 miles) north of Tokyo on Honshu Island.
As of now, Japan has restarted 14 out of the 33 operable nuclear reactors, according to the World Nuclear Association. The reopening of the Niigata plant marks a pivotal moment for TEPCO, the same utility that managed the Fukushima facility. In light of public concerns, TEPCO officials have emphasized their commitment to safety. “We remain firmly committed to never repeating such an accident and ensuring Niigata residents never experience anything similar,” TEPCO spokesperson Masakatsu Takata stated.
Before the Fukushima disaster, nuclear energy accounted for approximately 30% of Japan’s electricity supply. Since then, the country has significantly increased its reliance on costly fossil fuel imports, including coal and natural gas. In the past year, these imports cost Japan around 10.7 trillion yen ($68 billion), making up about 60-70% of the nation’s power generation.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who assumed office two months ago, advocates for nuclear energy as a means to revitalize the struggling industry. This approach aims to reduce energy costs, combat inflation, and stimulate economic growth. As the world’s fifth-largest emitter of carbon dioxide, Japan has promised to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. The latest energy plan includes a strong emphasis on renewable resources, with increased investments in solar and wind energy.
Japan’s energy needs are projected to rise in the coming years, driven by a surge in energy-intensive data centers supporting artificial intelligence infrastructure. To meet its energy and climate objectives, the government aims to double the share of nuclear power in the electricity mix to 20% by 2040.
Despite these ambitious plans, many residents of Niigata remain apprehensive about the resumption of nuclear operations. A recent survey conducted by the Niigata prefecture revealed that 60% of locals believe conditions for the restart have not been adequately met. Additionally, nearly 70% expressed concerns regarding TEPCO’s management of the plant.
Ayako Oga, a resident who relocated to Niigata after fleeing the Fukushima disaster, articulated the lingering fears among locals. “We know firsthand the risk of a nuclear accident and cannot dismiss it,” Oga said. Her previous home lay within the exclusion zone, and she continues to experience symptoms akin to post-traumatic stress disorder.
In response to safety concerns, TEPCO has undertaken extensive upgrades and inspections of the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa plant. The company asserts that it has learned vital lessons from the Fukushima incident. New seawalls and watertight doors are designed to enhance protection against tsunamis. Furthermore, mobile generators and additional fire trucks will be stationed on-site for emergency cooling support. TEPCO has also implemented upgraded filtering systems aimed at controlling the spread of radioactive materials.
In late October, TEPCO completed a comprehensive round of integrity checks at Unit 6, declaring the reactor fit for startup. As Japan moves forward, the balance between energy security and public safety remains a critical focus in the nation’s evolving energy landscape.
