Japan has taken a decisive step toward restarting the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power plant, the world’s largest by capacity, nearly 15 years after the Fukushima disaster reshaped the country’s energy policy. On Monday, the Niigata prefectural assembly passed a vote of confidence in Governor Hideyo Hanazumi, who endorsed the restart last month. The vote effectively removes the final political obstacle to resuming operations at the plant, located about 220 km northwest of Tokyo.

Kashiwazaki-Kariwa was among 54 reactors shut down in 2011 after an earthquake and tsunami triggered meltdowns at Fukushima Daiichi. Since then, Japan has restarted 14 of the 33 operable reactors.

Why It Matters

The restart would mark a symbolic and practical milestone in Japan’s return to nuclear power, especially because the plant will be operated by Tokyo Electric Power Co (TEPCO), the same utility that ran Fukushima Daiichi.

The first reactor alone could boost electricity supply to the Tokyo region by about 2%, helping Japan reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels at a time of rising energy demand.

The decision also reflects growing pressure on Japan to secure stable, low-carbon power sources as AI data centres and electrification drive consumption higher.

Public Opposition and Local Concerns

Despite political approval, public resistance remains strong.

A prefectural survey published in October showed 60% of residents believe conditions for a restart have not been met, and nearly 70% expressed concern about TEPCO’s ability to operate the plant safely.

Around 300 protesters gathered outside the assembly on Monday, holding anti-nuclear banners and chanting slogans opposing the restart.

Some residents, including former Fukushima evacuees now living in Niigata, say the risks remain unacceptable and that the restart revives traumatic memories of the 2011 disaster.

Tokyo Electric Power Co (TEPCO): Plans to restart the first of seven reactors as early as January 20, according to NHK. The company has pledged 100 billion yen ($641 million) in local investment over 10 years.

Niigata Prefectural Government: Governor Hanazumi supports the restart but has said he hopes Japan can eventually reduce reliance on nuclear power.

Japanese Government: Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi backs nuclear restarts to strengthen energy security and curb fuel import costs.

Local Communities and Activists: Many remain opposed, citing safety concerns and distrust of TEPCO.

What’s Next

TEPCO is expected to proceed with preparations to restart the first reactor, pending final technical and regulatory checks.

The restart would be closely watched nationwide, as it could shape public acceptance of Japan’s broader plan to double nuclear power’s share to 20% of electricity generation by 2040.

Further restarts and potential construction of new reactors are likely to depend on whether Kashiwazaki-Kariwa can operate without incident and rebuild public trust in nuclear energy.

With information from Reuters.