质疑声中，日本加速重启核电

Core Viewpoint - Japan's nuclear power sector is facing renewed scrutiny and public concern following a radioactive water leak incident at the "Puxian" reactor, coinciding with the government's plan to restart the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power plant, the largest in the country, amid ongoing safety debates [1][2]. Group 1: Nuclear Power Restart Plans - The Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power plant is set to restart on January 20, 2024, with commercial operations expected to begin on February 26, 2024, marking the first restart of a nuclear unit since the Fukushima disaster in 2011 [1]. - The Japanese government is accelerating the nationwide push for nuclear power restarts to enhance energy security and manage rising living costs, driven by a significant increase in electricity demand from AI data centers [2]. Group 2: Economic Implications - Japan's reliance on fossil fuels has surged, with these sources accounting for 70% of the country's electricity needs, leading to a substantial import expenditure of 10.7 trillion yen (approximately 100 billion USD) on liquefied natural gas and coal last year [2]. - The high costs of fossil fuel imports are contributing to domestic inflation and posing challenges to the ruling Liberal Democratic Party's public support [2]. Group 3: Safety Concerns and Geographical Risks - Experts warn of significant geological risks associated with the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power plant, which is located on a seismic fault line, raising concerns about the suitability of the site for nuclear facilities [3]. - There are unresolved issues regarding earthquake risks and the lack of credible evacuation plans, which remain critical challenges for Japan's nuclear safety management [3].