Japan Restarts Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Nuclear Plant

Japan has restarted a reactor at the Tokyo Electric Power Company===Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Nuclear Power Plant, the world's largest by potential capacity, operated by Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO). This marks the first restart of a TEPCO-run unit since the 2011 Fukushima disaster, which led to a nationwide shutdown of nuclear power. The restart, which followed a minor glitch in January, is part of Japan's strategy to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, and meet growing energy demands. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has actively promoted nuclear power. While the restart is a significant step, public opinion in the Japan===Niigata Prefecture area remains divided, with concerns about safety and evacuation plans. Commercial operations are expected to begin on or after March 18 after further inspections.