- Japan restarts nuclear reactors to reduce coal dependence and address environmental concerns.
- The Kashiwazaki-Kariwa plant resumes operations with enhanced safety measures to prevent another disaster like Fukushima.
- Japan aims for 36-38% renewable energy by 2030, while nuclear power is set to provide 20-22% of electricity.
Japan is restarting its nuclear reactors to reduce coal use and address growing environmental pressures. This move reflects the country’s broader shift towards cleaner energy sources.
The Kashiwazaki-Kariwa (KK) plant, the world’s largest nuclear facility, is now operating one of its reactors again. New safety measures, including a 15-meter tsunami wall, aim to ensure safer operations as Japan seeks to reduce its reliance on coal and carbon footprint.
After the Fukushima disaster in 2011, Japan halted nuclear power, turning to fossil fuel imports. Today, nuclear energy contributes less than 10% of the nation’s electricity. The government now pushes for a nuclear revival, with officials claiming Japan follows the strictest safety protocols globally.
KK implemented systems to prevent another Fukushima-like incident. It installed elevated generator trucks, evacuation routes, and enhanced ventilation systems. These upgrades ensure a stable electricity supply while reducing the risk of another disaster.
Before 2011, nuclear plants generated one-third of Japan’s electricity. Reactor shutdowns forced the country to increase fossil fuel imports, which cost the government $510 million daily last year. According to the think tank E3G, Japan ranks last among G7 nations in decarbonising its power grid.
The government aims to raise the renewable energy share from 20% to 36-38% by 2030, cutting fossil fuel use to 41%. E3G expert Hanna Hakko estimates Japan could achieve 70-80% renewable energy by 2035, allowing it to phase out coal entirely.
However, nuclear energy and natural gas remain crucial to meeting Japan’s energy needs. By 2030, the government plans for nuclear to provide 20-22% of the country’s electricity. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba underscores the importance of atomic power for energy security despite ongoing public concerns.
Public mistrust of nuclear energy remains strong. Recent government warnings of a possible “mega-earthquake” within the next 30 years fuel these concerns. In Fukushima, efforts to secure the site and manage radioactive fuel continue, heightening public scepticism.
Japan’s energy strategy hinges on balancing nuclear power, public sentiment, and cleaner energy goals. As the country accelerates its energy transition, atomic energy will play a crucial role alongside growing renewable energy sources.