Niigata Governor Hideyo Hanazumi has formally approved the restart of two reactors at the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power plant, clearing the final local hurdle toward resuming operations at the world’s largest nuclear facility after more than a decade.
Hanazumi conveyed his consent to Economy and Industry Minister Ryosei Akazawa, accepting government assurances on safety, emergency preparedness and public understanding. Preparations to restart Reactor No. 6 are nearly complete, with operator TEPCO expected to seek final regulatory clearance this week. Reactor No. 7 is expected to take longer.
The approval follows passage of a prefectural budget allocating funds for the restart. Hanazumi described the decision as difficult but necessary.
Japan is reversing its post-Fukushima nuclear phaseout amid rising fuel costs, energy security concerns and climate commitments. Only 13 of the country’s 57 reactors are currently operational.
The Kashiwazaki-Kariwa plant has remained offline since 2012 and faced renewed scrutiny after a January 2024 earthquake reignited safety concerns. Experts continue to raise questions over waste management and TEPCO’s ability to regain public trust.
