The fate on the restart of the world’s biggest nuclear power plant rests on the decision of Japan’s Niigata prefecture governor. The verdict is one that holds a huge significance for the entire country. “I would like to make a decision and express it soon,” Mr Hideyo Hanazumi said at his regular weekly media briefing on Nov 19. His approval is the last remaining hurdle that Tokyo Electric Power Company (Tepco) must clear before relaunching production at the Kashiwazaki Kariwa facility in the Niigata region. Furthermore, the proposed restart of the plant’s No. 6 unit would mark the first time that Tepco has operated a nuclear facility since the Fukushima disaster in 2011. Mr Hanazumi was speaking a day after visiting the Fukushima Dai-chi Nuclear Power Plant. The plant is also operated by Tepco and was the site of the meltdown. The plant is the world’s largest despite being out of operation for a while.
Project Factsheet
Significance:
- Decision to restart the world’s largest nuclear power plant is left to Niigata Governor Hideyo Hanazumi.
- Restarting Unit 6 would represent TEPCO’s first nuclear operation since the 2011 Fukushima disaster.
- This move supports Japan’s push to expand nuclear power, cut imports of fossil fuels, and decarbonize.
Key Details:
- Governor Hanazumi says he will announce his decision “soon” after inspecting the Fukushima Dai-ichi plant.
- His approval is the final step before TEPCO can resume operations.
- There are reports of a possible announcement around Nov 21, though no firm date is set.
- TEPCO’s stock slipped 4.1 percent as markets reacted to uncertainty.
Regulatory & Developer Information:
- Operator: Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO).
- Facility: Kashiwazaki-Kariwa plant, Niigata region.
- Restart requires comprehensive safety reviews and execution of Japan’s nuclear regulatory standards.
Expected Impact:
- A restart would represent a milestone toward fulfilling Japan’s post-Fukushima energy plan.
- Strengthens long-term energy security and stabilizes national supply.
- Supports Japan’s commitment to low-carbon power generation and reduces dependence on imported fuels.
The Significance of Restarting the World’s Biggest Nuclear Power Plant
If approved, the restart of the world’s biggest nuclear power plant would be a watershed moment for the country. This is because is one that endured the worst nuclear accidents since Chernobyl. Furthermore, resumption of the facility would also be a shot in the arm for the Japanese government’s aim of expanding nuclear power capacity. It also aims to reduce imports of fossil fuels and meet decarbonization goals. Tepco’s shares fell as much as 4.1 per cent in morning trading, before paring losses. Local sources have reported the governor could make an announcement supporting the restart as early as November 21. However, Mr Hanazumi noted during the media conference that no specific timing has been set.
