日本最大核电站拟重启面临信任危机

Core Viewpoint - The Niigata Prefectural Assembly has approved a supplementary budget to restart the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Nuclear Power Plant, Japan's largest nuclear facility, which has been shut down since 2012 following the Fukushima disaster. This decision has sparked significant controversy and public opposition [1][2]. Group 1: Nuclear Power Plant Restart - The Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Nuclear Power Plant has a total installed capacity of approximately 8.212 million kilowatts and began operations in 1985 [1]. - The plant was initially shut down in March 2012 after the Fukushima disaster, and its restart has faced multiple delays due to safety concerns and equipment failures [1]. - The Niigata Prefectural Assembly's approval allows for the restart of units 6 and 7, with a potential restart date set for January 2026 if all goes smoothly [1]. Group 2: Government and Economic Context - The Japanese government aims to increase nuclear power's share of total electricity generation to 20-22% by 2030, as outlined in its 2021 energy plan [2]. - Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) has lost operational capacity in its other nuclear plants, making the restart of Kashiwazaki-Kariwa critical for its business restructuring and profitability [2]. - The current depreciation of the yen has increased energy import pressures, further motivating the government to restart nuclear power [2]. Group 3: Public Sentiment and Trust Issues - Public opposition is significant, with approximately 70% of Niigata residents expressing distrust towards TEPCO, reflecting a broader skepticism towards the government's assurances of nuclear safety [2][3]. - Historical incidents, including the 2007 earthquake and the 2011 Fukushima disaster, have eroded public trust in TEPCO and the government's nuclear safety claims [3]. - Despite new safety regulations implemented by the Nuclear Regulation Authority, public confidence remains low, and there is widespread concern about the risks associated with nuclear power [3].