Japan Prepares to Restart Kashiwazaki-Kariwa, the World’s Largest Nuclear Power Plant After 14 Years

Daftar Isi

Niigata, Japan – The Japanese government, through Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO), is preparing to restart the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Nuclear Power Plant, the largest nuclear power facility in the world by installed capacity, after a 14-year suspension following the Fukushima disaster. The official announcement was made on Monday, 22 December 2025, marking a significant step in Japan’s national energy strategy and reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels.

The Kashiwazaki-Kariwa plant is located in Niigata Prefecture, Japan, and has a total capacity of 8.2 gigawatts (GW) across seven reactors. Previously, the facility served as a major source of electricity for the country before all units were shut down following the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident in March 2011, caused by a massive earthquake and tsunami. The incident triggered the most severe nuclear crisis in Japan’s history and prompted a comprehensive review of nuclear safety protocols nationwide.

The restart will focus on Reactor Unit 6, which has successfully passed a stringent safety assessment by Japan’s Nuclear Regulation Authority. Inspections included emergency cooling systems, earthquake and tsunami safeguards, and evacuation procedures for nearby residents. TEPCO stated that all technical checks have been completed and nuclear fuel has been loaded into the reactor in preparation for operation.

Local government approval is a crucial step before the reactor can be fully activated. The Niigata Prefectural Government and local councils are reviewing safety measures and potential social impacts. While concerns from residents remain, authorities emphasize that the latest safety technologies and protocols have been implemented to minimize risks. TEPCO has also conducted public information sessions and evacuation drills to ensure community preparedness.

The main reasons for Japan’s decision to restart its largest nuclear facility include energy security, stable electricity supply, and carbon emission reduction. Over the past decade, Japan has heavily depended on imported fossil fuels such as natural gas and coal, resulting in high energy costs. With a capacity of 8.2 GW, Kashiwazaki-Kariwa is capable of supplying power to millions of households while reducing the country’s reliance on imported energy sources.

However, public concern persists. Some residents and environmental groups stress the ongoing risks of nuclear accidents, particularly as Japan lies in an active seismic zone. Surveys indicate that a portion of the population demands greater transparency and safety assurances before the reactor is fully operational. The government insists that the restart will be accompanied by strict oversight and comprehensive emergency procedures.

If all goes according to plan, Reactor Unit 6 at Kashiwazaki-Kariwa is expected to commence commercial operations around March 2026, marking the return of Japan’s largest nuclear capacity after 14 years. TEPCO emphasizes that safety, transparency, and energy efficiency will remain top priorities, positioning the plant as a key component of Japan’s energy infrastructure during the winter of 2025–2026 and in its transition to cleaner energy for the future.