Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power plant

Japan has restarted a nuclear reactor at the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power plant, the world’s largest nuclear facility, nearly 15 years after the Fukushima nuclear disaster in 2011 forced the shutdown of all reactors across the country.

Details of the Reactor
According to reports, Reactor No. 6 at the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa plant, located northwest of Tokyo, was restarted. The restart had been delayed by one day due to an alarm malfunction. The reactor is expected to begin commercial operations next month.

Background: Fukushima Disaster
Following the 2011 Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident, triggered by a massive earthquake and tsunami, Japan suspended nuclear operations nationwide amid public safety concerns and stricter regulatory oversight.

Energy Mix Before 2011
Before the Fukushima disaster, nuclear power generated nearly 30% of Japan’s electricity. At the time, Japan had planned to increase nuclear energy’s share to around 50% by 2030 as part of its long-term energy strategy.