TEPCO Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Nuclear Restart 2026: World's Largest Plant Returns
On Jan 21, 2026, TEPCO partially restarted the world's largest nuclear plant, Kashiwazaki-Kariwa, after 15 years. Explore the economic and energy implications for Japan.
A 15-year hiatus has finally ended. The world's largest nuclear power plant is back online. On Wednesday, January 21, 2026, Tokyo Electric Power Co. Holdings (TEPCO) partially restarted the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear facility. This marks a pivotal moment for Japan's energy strategy since the plant's shutdown following the 2011 Fukushima disaster.
The Economic Imperative Behind TEPCO Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Restart
The restart isn't just about history; it's about survival. TEPCO plans to invest $70 billion over the next 10 years to revamp its power infrastructure. By reactivating the world's biggest reactor, the company aims to meet the skyrocketing electricity demand from the greater Tokyo area and new data centers being developed nearby.
Fueling the Future of AI and Chips
Industry analysts suggest that Japan's nuclear revival is an economic inevitability. With the global race for semiconductors heating up, reliable and affordable baseload power is essential. The return of Kashiwazaki-Kariwa provides exactly that, potentially luring chipmakers to set up shops in regions previously plagued by energy uncertainty.
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