Japan restarted Reactor Number Six at the Kashiwazaki Kariwa nuclear power plant on January 29 2026, marking the first operation at the facility in nearly fifteen years. The plant located in Niigata Prefecture is the largest nuclear power station in the world by capacity and its restart represents a significant step in Japan’s gradual return to nuclear energy.
Plant operator Tokyo Electric Power Company confirmed that the reactor was brought back online after passing extensive safety inspections by Japan’s Nuclear Regulation Authority. The inspections focused on earthquake resilience emergency response systems and upgraded security measures introduced following the Fukushima nuclear disaster in 2011.
Government officials said the restart supports Japan’s energy security as the country seeks to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels and stabilize electricity supply. Rising energy costs and concerns over carbon emissions have renewed debate within Japan about the role of nuclear power in the national energy mix.
Local authorities approved the restart after consultations with regulators and emergency preparedness reviews. However some residents and environmental groups expressed continued concern over safety risks and long term waste management.
Officials said power generation would be increased gradually while monitoring systems remain under close supervision. Additional reactors at the plant may be considered for restart pending further approvals.
The restart reflects a broader shift in Japan’s energy policy as it balances safety public opinion and economic pressures in the post Fukushima era.
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