Approval to restart Kashiwazaki-Kariwa, the world's largest nuclear power plant

Approval has been granted to restart the Kashiwazaki–Kariwa Nuclear Power Plant, the world’s largest nuclear facility by installed capacity, marking a major development in Japan’s energy policy. Located in Niigata Prefecture, the plant has been largely offline since the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster, after which Japan imposed strict safety reviews and regulatory reforms across its nuclear sector. The approval followed extensive inspections by the Nuclear Regulation Authority, which assessed upgraded safety systems, earthquake and tsunami countermeasures, and emergency preparedness. Authorities concluded that the operator had met revised regulatory standards, allowing steps toward reactivation. The decision reflects the government’s efforts to rebalance Japan’s energy mix amid rising fuel costs, energy security concerns, and commitments to reduce carbon emissions. The restart approval carries significant economic, environmental, and political implications. From an energy perspective, bringing Kashiwazaki–Kariwa back online could substantially increase domestic power generation capacity and reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels, particularly liquefied natural gas and coal. This may help stabilize electricity prices and support industrial competitiveness. Environmentally, nuclear power is viewed by policymakers as a low-carbon option that can contribute to climate targets, though public concern over safety remains strong. Locally, opposition persists among residents and regional leaders who emphasize disaster risk and trust issues with plant operators. Internationally, the move signals Japan’s cautious return to nuclear energy as part of a diversified strategy. Overall, the approval represents a pivotal step in Japan’s post-Fukushima energy transition, balancing safety, sustainability, and energy security.