Chugoku Electric Power has successfully restarted the Shimane nuclear power station in western Japan, marking the first operation of this facility since its closure following the 2011 Fukushima disaster.
Reactor Revival: The restart of the Shimane reactor brings the total count of operational nuclear reactors in Japan to 14, enhancing the country’s nuclear power capacity to 13,253 MW. This step is part of a broader initiative to revive nuclear power in Japan amidst strict safety regulations post-Fukushima.
Impact on Energy Imports: With this development, Japan anticipates a reduction in its reliance on imported liquefied natural gas (LNG) and thermal coal in the coming year. The nation’s energy mix is seeing a shift back towards nuclear, which is also evidenced by Tohoku Electric Power’s recent recommissioning of a reactor at its Onagawa plant in northern Japan.
This move reflects Japan’s ongoing efforts to balance energy security, economic considerations, and environmental goals, aiming to decrease carbon emissions while ensuring a stable power supply. However, the restarts are under scrutiny due to persistent public concerns over nuclear safety.
