World's Largest Nuclear Plant Restarts in Japan Despite Local Protests

Kariwa, Japan, January 21, 2026 – The Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power plant, the world’s largest by capacity, is set to restart its first reactor today, marking the first such operation since the 2011 Fukushima disaster. Operator Tokyo Electric Power (TEPCO) confirmed preparations to remove control rods after 7:00 pm, following approval from Niigata’s governor last month.Despite upgrades like a 15-meter tsunami wall, local opposition remains strong.

Largest Nuclear Plant

A September survey showed 60% of residents against the restart, citing inadequate evacuation plans and seismic risks. Protesters braved snow yesterday, with 73-year-old Yumiko Abe telling AFP, “It’s Tokyo’s electricity that is produced in Kashiwazaki, so why should the people here be put at risk? That makes no sense.”TEPCO, still decommissioning Fukushima, faces criticism over past scandals. Japan aims to revive nuclear energy for carbon neutrality by 2050, reducing fossil fuel reliance.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi supports the move, with nuclear targeted at 20% of energy by 2040. A petition from seven groups, signed by nearly 40,000, highlighted earthquake fears, stating, “We can’t remove the fear of being hit by another unforeseen earthquake.”

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