Tuesday, 02 January 2024 12:17 GMT

Japan Greenlights Reactivation of World’s Largest Nuclear Facility


(MENAFN) Japanese officials on Friday authorized the reactivation of the world’s largest nuclear installation—a significant step forward and the first of its kind since the 2011 Fukushima catastrophe, according to a news agency.

The approval applies to Reactor No. 6 at the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear complex, which is slated to begin functioning in March 2026 after Niigata Prefecture governor Hideyo Hanazumi granted his consent.

The 8.2-gigawatt site, containing seven individual reactors, has remained inactive since 2012, following the Fukushima Daiichi core meltdown caused by a massive tsunami. The Japanese administration endorses the reactivation, emphasizing nuclear power as a “stable and carbon-free energy source.”

Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) characterized the authorization as an essential element of its broader strategy, noting that renewed operations could enhance revenue streams used to compensate individuals impacted by the Fukushima disaster.

The governor is now set to consult with the regional assembly, which convenes its monthly session on Dec. 2. If assembly members approve the plan, national authorities will be informed that all regional procedures have been finalized.

A February analysis from the prefecture’s technical panel identified no safety concerns regarding the plant’s regulatory compliance after an extensive review.

Currently, only Reactor No. 6 is prepared for activation, with nuclear fuel already loaded.

Provided the process continues without complications, it is expected to be fully operational by the end of March 2026.

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