Japan Plans Major Overhaul of Nuclear Reactor Sector by Mid-21st Century

Japan is preparing to initiate a significant transformation in its nuclear reactor and energy sector, according to a policy draft scheduled for presentation on Friday by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

The plan involves reconstructing between two and five aging nuclear reactors by the 2040s, and expanding this to between 11 and 14 reactors by the 2050s. This effort aims to secure a stable electricity supply for the country.

This proposal reflects a strategic shift toward greater dependence on nuclear power to meet rising electricity demand and reduce costly fuel imports. The policy will be discussed in an upcoming meeting focused on nuclear policy.

Following the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster, Japan shut down all 54 operational nuclear reactors due to public safety concerns. Out of 33 reactors eligible for restart, 15 have been reactivated so far.

Last year, Tokyo revised its fundamental energy policy to maximize the utilization of nuclear energy. However, many reactors are nearing or have surpassed their 60-year operational lifespan, raising concerns about a potential decline in nuclear capacity despite efforts to restart dormant plants.

These developments coincide with an anticipated sharp increase in electricity demand, driven largely by data centers supporting artificial intelligence technologies.

Under the current energy plan, Japan aims to increase the share of nuclear power in its electricity mix to approximately 20% by fiscal year 2040, up from 9.4% in fiscal year 2024.

Japan has recently restarted a nuclear power plant that was previously shut down following the Fukushima disaster.