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Japan's Largest Nuclear Plant Reopens After 15 Years

Published January 21, 2026, 13:25
Japan's Largest Nuclear Plant Reopens After 15 Years

The world's largest nuclear power plant, Kashiwazaki-Kariwa in Japan, resumed operations today after 15 years, specifically since the Fukushima disaster in 2011. The restart initially involves one of the plant's seven reactors, which has the largest production capacity globally. Operation began at 19:02 local time, as announced by Tokyo Electric Power (Tepco). Despite approval from the governor of Niigata Prefecture, public opinion remains divided, with a September survey showing that 60% of residents oppose the restart, while 37% support it. This indicates significant concerns about the safety of nuclear facilities following the Fukushima tragedy. Yesterday, protesters, mainly elderly people, demonstrated outside the plant, expressing their opposition to the resumption of operations. This protest is part of the broader public reaction to the decision to restart the plant. The restart of Kashiwazaki-Kariwa marks a shift in Japan's energy policy, which had restricted the use of nuclear energy after Fukushima. This decision comes amid growing concerns about energy security and climate change.