After more than a decade of suspension, Japan's largest nuclear power plant has moved closer to restarting operations following a landmark decision by Niigata Prefecture. On November 21, 2025, Governor Hanazumi officially announced his approval for the restart of the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Nuclear Power Plant, operated by Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO), according to NHK. The Kashiwazaki-Kariwa facility, located on Japan's western coast facing the Sea of Japan, has been offline since the 2011 Fukushima disaster led to a nationwide shutdown of nuclear reactors. The plant houses seven reactors, making it the world's largest nuclear power station by generating capacity. Two of its reactors have passed national safety screenings, but the facility has faced additional scrutiny due to TEPCO's troubled safety record and local opposition. Governor Hanazumi's decision follows years of deliberation and consultation with local communities. According to NHK, the prefecture plans to strengthen its communication efforts with residents, recognizing that significant concerns remain among the local population. The announcement marks a crucial step in Japan's broader energy strategy, though actual operations remain months away pending final regulatory approvals and preparations. The timing of this decision reflects Japan's evolving energy security priorities. Liberal Democratic Party Policy Research Council Chairman Kobayashi emphasized the importance of nuclear reactor restarts for ensuring stable electricity supply, according to NHK reporting on November 22. He stated that the government would proceed carefully with policies related to nuclear power, acknowledging the sensitivity of the issue. For foreign residents in Japan, this development has several practical implications. Energy security has become an increasingly pressing concern following global supply chain disruptions and geopolitical tensions affecting fossil fuel imports. Japan currently relies heavily on liquefied natural gas, coal, and oil for electricity generation, making the country vulnerable to international price fluctuations and supply disruptions. The restart of Kashiwazaki-Kariwa could help stabilize electricity costs in the long term, particularly for residents and businesses in eastern Japan served by TEPCO. However, the immediate impact on electricity bills remains uncertain, as the plant still requires additional preparations before generating power. The decision also highlights Japan's complex relationship with nuclear energy. While the 2011 Fukushima disaster created widespread public skepticism about nuclear safety, the government has maintained that nuclear power remains essential for achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 while ensuring energy independence. This balancing act between safety concerns and energy needs continues to shape public policy debates. Local opposition groups in Niigata have expressed disappointment with the governor's decision, and protests are expected to continue. Foreign residents living in Niigata Prefecture or surrounding areas should stay informed about local developments and emergency preparedness procedures, regardless of their personal views on nuclear energy. The prefecture has committed to enhancing transparency and public communication regarding the restart process. This includes providing regular updates on safety measures, inspection results, and operational status once the plant begins generating electricity again. Looking ahead, the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa restart represents a significant test case for Japan's nuclear energy future. If successful, it could pave the way for additional reactor restarts nationwide. However, TEPCO must demonstrate that it has adequately addressed past safety lapses and can maintain the highest operational standards. For expats, understanding Japan's energy landscape provides valuable context for broader policy discussions and potential impacts on daily life, from electricity costs to climate policy initiatives. As the restart process unfolds over the coming months, staying informed through reliable news sources will help foreign residents understand how these changes may affect their communities and households.