On Dec. 22, 2025, Niigata Prefecture took a major step by approving the restart of the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power plant – the world's largest ⚛️. This decision comes more than a decade after the Fukushima disaster shook Japan's energy landscape.
The prefectural assembly backed Governor Hideyo Hanazumi's plan, which he announced last month. With this green light, Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) can begin technical procedures to bring the plant back online, aiming to boost power supply and cut emissions (details TBA from TEPCO).
But not everyone is on board. About 300 protesters gathered outside the assembly on Monday, calling for a nuclear-free future. Carrying bold banners reading "No Nukes" and "We oppose the restart of Kashiwazaki-Kariwa," they voiced concerns over safety and environmental risks 🌱.
As TEPCO gears up for restart checks, the debate over Japan's energy mix is heating up. Will nuclear power regain its role in meeting demand? Stay tuned for updates on how this story unfolds! 🔍✨
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Protesters rally as Japan plans to restart Kashiwazaki-Kariwa plant
cgtn.com
