Japan Restarts Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Nuclear Reactor for First Time Since Fukushima Disaster.

Unit 6 at Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Nuclear Plant Resumes Operation

According to TSN.ua: For the first time in 15 years since the Fukushima accident, Japan has restarted a nuclear reactor. Unit 6 at the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power plant was brought back online on January 21, 2026, at 7:02 PM local time. This milestone follows years of preparation, with nuclear fuel having been loaded in June 2025. This restart marks a significant shift in Japan's energy policy, which has heavily relied on fossil fuel imports since 2011.

The Kashiwazaki-Kariwa plant is the world's largest nuclear power station by generating capacity, at 7,965 MW. It was shut down following the 2011 Fukushima Daiichi disaster, which led to the evacuation of approximately 160,000 people. The restart of Unit 6 is a pivotal moment for Japan, signaling a gradual move beyond the post-Fukushima nuclear crisis that saw all reactors idled for safety reviews.

Nuclear Power's Role in Japan's Energy Future

Filippo Pedretti noted that this restart underscores the importance of nuclear power for ensuring a stable energy supply in the country. It could be a crucial step in rebuilding public and institutional trust in nuclear energy, which has faced numerous policy challenges since Fukushima. Japan's decision reflects a global reconsideration of nuclear power as a low-carbon energy source.

'The restart of Unit 6 at the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa plant could significantly influence Japan's energy policy.' - Filippo Pedretti

Reviving nuclear power in Japan may also improve the nation's chances of meeting ambitious carbon reduction targets, given rising demands for environmental sustainability. This development, in turn, could impact global energy markets and international climate change policy frameworks.