Japan restarts the world's largest nuclear power plant in Niigata

Japan is poised to take a historic step in its energy policy, with Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) planning to restart the world's largest nuclear power plant, the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa plant in Niigata Prefecture. This move comes after years of forced shutdowns due to the aftermath of natural disasters and safety concerns.

According to the Japanese news agency Kyodo, the operator is considering restarting reactor number 7 at the plant by January 20, provided it receives final regulatory and local approvals. This power plant is a giant in the energy sector, housing seven reactors and possessing enormous generating capacity that has been a cornerstone of the electricity supply for Tokyo and the surrounding areas.

Historical background: The 2011 earthquake and its impact

The roots of Japan's nationwide nuclear shutdown can be traced back to March 2011, when a devastating magnitude 9 earthquake struck off the east coast, followed by a massive tsunami. This double disaster triggered a meltdown at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, resulting in the worst nuclear accident since Chernobyl. In its aftermath, Japan shut down all 54 of its reactors for comprehensive inspections and enhanced safety standards, plunging the country into a prolonged energy crisis.

The importance of returning to nuclear energy

The decision to restart the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa power plant carries significant strategic and economic implications for Japan:

• Energy security: Japan relies heavily on imported fossil fuels (liquefied natural gas and coal) for electricity generation, making it vulnerable to global price fluctuations and geopolitical tensions. Restarting nuclear power plants will provide a stable domestic source of base-load power.
• Climate goals: The Japanese government aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Nuclear power is an integral part of the “green transition” strategy to reduce carbon emissions from conventional thermal power plants.
• Economic impact: The operation of the station is expected to contribute to reducing electricity costs, which have risen significantly for consumers and businesses in recent years, thus supporting the national economy.

It should be noted that the road to restarting was not easy, as TEPCO faced strict regulatory challenges, including an operational ban imposed by the Nuclear Regulatory Authority due to gaps in counter-terrorism measures and protection of nuclear materials. This ban was recently lifted after security improvements were confirmed, paving the way for this anticipated step.