Japan Restarts Reactor at World's Largest Nuclear Plant After 2011 Fukushima Disaster

Japan restarted one reactor at the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power plant on January 21, 2026, marking the first operation since the 2011 Fukushima disaster. Operated by Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO), the world's largest nuclear plant has undergone safety upgrades, but local opposition remains strong, with around 60% of residents opposing the restart. The government supports nuclear energy to reduce fossil fuel reliance and meet energy demands, while concerns persist over safety and evacuation plans.