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Niigata Approves Restart of World’s Largest Nuclear Plant

11/23/2025

30 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Governor Hideyo Hanazumi (Niigata Prefecture) announced that Niigata Prefecture has approved the restart of the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power plant, the world's largest.
Final approval from Japan's Nuclear Regulation Authority is still required.
The restart targets reactor 6 for a March 2026 resumption.
A recent survey shows 50% public support for the restart, as Japan aims to reduce fossil fuel use and reach carbon neutrality by 2050.

History

Historical Context

Following the 2011 Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster, Japan's nuclear energy policies underwent significant changes, leading to the shutdown of all 44 nuclear plants, including the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa facility. By 2023, public support for restarting the plant reached 50%, reflecting a shift in attitudes as Japan aims to reduce fossil fuel reliance and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

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Story summary

Governor Hideyo Hanazumi (Niigata Prefecture) announced that Niigata Prefecture has approved the restart of the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power plant, the world's largest.
Final approval from Japan's Nuclear Regulation Authority is still required.
The restart targets reactor 6 for a March 2026 resumption.
A recent survey shows 50% public support for the restart, as Japan aims to reduce fossil fuel use and reach carbon neutrality by 2050.

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