In brief
As Japan seeks to fortify its energy resources while grappling with haunting memories of the Fukushima disaster, the cabinet's newly approved energy plan outlines a target for nuclear energy to supply 20% of the national grid by 2040, up from 8.5% in 2023.
Japan's government revealed a strategic pivot towards enhancing nuclear energy usage as part of a comprehensive energy policy aimed at addressing the surging demands from burgeoning sectors, such as artificial intelligence and semiconductor manufacturing. The new energy plan, ratified by the cabinet on Tuesday, boldly outlines the intention to "maximize the use of nuclear energy", marking a notable departure from its previous stance that emphasized a reduction in nuclear dependencies. According to projections laid out by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, this revised energy framework anticipates that nuclear power will account for upwards of 20% of Japan's energy grid by 2040, significantly enhancing its current contribution of 8.5%. The plan is especially pivotal as Japan currently operates only 14 of its commercial nuclear reactors, a stark decline from the 54 reactors functional prior to the 2011 Fukushima disaster, which saw nuclear energy contribute to 30% of the national energy supply.The memories of the catastrophic Fukushima incident remain vivid in the public's consciousness. The March 2011 disaster, triggered by a 9.0-magnitude earthquake along Japan's northeastern coast, resulted in a tsunami that devastated entire towns and led to widespread radioactive contamination. With Japan heavily reliant on imports for 90% of its energy, officials argue that an increased commitment to nuclear power is essential for reducing carbon emissions and achieving energy self-sufficiency. In light of international conflicts that have strained fuel availability, the country is under pressure to leverage all available energy resources pragmatically, per Daishiro Yamagiwa, an MP involved in the government’s energy advisory committee.However, the heightened reliance on nuclear energy raises concerns among experts who caution that the risks could outweigh the benefits. Professor Kenichi Oshima from Ryukoku University remarked on the potential hazards associated with expanding nuclear infrastructure, highlighting that Japan would need to import costly uranium and become dependent on other nations. He also referenced recent seismic activity suggesting that additional nuclear plants could amplify the threat of catastrophic accidents.The emotional scars from Fukushima are still fresh among residents. Tokyo citizen Yuko Maruyama expressed her apprehension, emphasizing her concerns for future generations and suggesting that the government should prioritize alternative energy sources. The Fukushima incident, recognized as the most severe nuclear accident since Chernobyl in 1986, continues to evoke a strong reaction, particularly after Japan commenced the controversial release of treated water from the disaster site in 2023. This action provoked condemnation and safety concerns from neighboring countries like China. Greenpeace, in its critique of the renewed energy strategy, labeled the promotion of nuclear energy as "outrageous", pointing out the long-lasting dangers associated with nuclear waste and the notable risks it poses, including potential earthquakes and terrorism.To meet the ambitious goal set by the government, experts estimate that 33 reactors would need to be restarted, a challenge compounded by safety inspections and local opposition. Many of these reactors are aging and require substantial technology upgrades to guarantee their safe operation. Yamagiwa acknowledged the intricacies of assessing each reactor, with the added complexity that each is located in unique environments necessitating tailored safety protocols. Recent approvals granted to aging reactors, including the Takahama power plant in October 2024 — marking it as the first to continue operations past 50 years — signal a new phase in Japan's attempt to navigate its energy future post-Fukushima.
